(a) The Department is designated as the “state agency” for all programs pertaining to housing, recreation and parks wherever such designation is required by federal law for the purpose of participating in federal programs; provided, however, that the Virgin Islands Housing Authority shall continue as the “public housing agency” and “local public agency” as designated by Title 29, section 31, VIC, to the extent necessary to comply with applicable federal law.
(b) The Governor shall, by Executive Order, unless otherwise prohibited by law, conform the Department, by organization or otherwise, to the requirements of federal law to the extent necessary to qualify the Department as the “state agency” within the meaning of this section.