(1) It is declared to be the policy of the state to encourage, in every way possible, the development of natural resources of the state, which resources are suitable for use in highway construction.
(2) Whenever upon investigation the commission shall find that suitable materials produced, mined, or manufactured in the State of Arkansas can be obtained as cheaply and are of as good quality as materials produced, mined, or manufactured in other states, the commission is empowered and authorized to specify that the materials produced, mined, or manufactured in Arkansas shall be used in the construction or maintenance of the roads of this state.