The commissioner is authorized to release information in accordance with subparagraph (vii) of paragraph nine of subdivision (c) of section 33.13 of this chapter to appropriate persons and entities when necessary to protect the public concerning a specific sex offender requiring civil management under this article, and to release information in accordance with subparagraph (viii) of paragraph nine of subdivision (c) of section 33.13 of this chapter to the attorney general and case review panel when such persons or entities request such information in the exercise of their statutory functions, powers, and duties under this article.