(a) The department may use the powers and provisions set out in AS 18.15.355 — 18.15.395 to prevent, control, or ameliorate conditions of public health importance or accomplish other essential public health services and functions.
(b) In performing its duties under AS 18.15.355 — 18.15.395, the department may (1) establish standards (A) for the prevention, control, or amelioration of conditions of public health importance;
(B) to accomplish other essential public health services and functions; and
(2) adopt regulations to implement and interpret AS 18.15.355 — 18.15.395.