The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics is hereby authorized and empowered to request and to accept the use of persons convicted of an offense, whether a felony or a misdemeanor, for work in support of the bureau. The bureau is authorized to enter into any agreements with the Department of Corrections, the State Parole Board, any criminal court of this state, and any other proper official regarding the working, guarding, safekeeping, clothing and subsistence of such persons performing work for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Such persons shall not be deemed agents, employees or involuntary servants of the bureau while performing such work or while going to and from work or other specified areas.