(a) The Department is designated as the “state agency” for all programs pertaining to youth, children, handicapped, elderly and low-income adults and families whenever such designation is required by federal law for the purpose of participating in federal programs.
(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.