§ 39. Hearings and subpoenas. The commissioner, the members of the unemployment insurance appeal board, the deputy commissioner, referees and any other officer of the department designated by the commissioner, shall have power:

1. To issue subpoenas for and compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, contracts, papers, documents and other evidence;

2. To hear testimony and take or cause to be taken depositions of witnesses residing within or without this state in the manner prescribed by law for like depositions in civil actions in the supreme court. Subpoenas and commissions to take testimony shall be issued under the seal of the department.