Reference to statutory authority under section 21A sets procedural content and timelines for Commission opinion referrals. Referral to a statutory authority must state the specific legal or factual proposition sought, include background, authenticated copies of relevant laws and Commission orders, and an updated list of parties and contacts; the Secretary must certify compliance, with limited exemptions for suo motu references. Additional information requested by the statutory authority should be provided promptly, and opinions not received within the prescribed response period must be placed before the Commission at an ordinary meeting for further orders; any opinion received is also to be tabled for Commission consideration.