(a) An adoption agency is subject to licensure and regulation by the department and shall comply with both of the following requirements:
(1) Meet applicable licensing standards as set forth in this chapter, comply with the rules, regulations, and interim licensing standards adopted pursuant to this chapter, and comply with all other applicable laws to maintain licensure.
(2) Comply with Division 13 (commencing with Section 8500) of the Family Code, and all regulations promulgated pursuant to those provisions.
(b) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, written directives, interim licensing standards, or similar written instructions from the department until regulations are adopted. These all-county letters, written directives, interim licensing standards, or similar written instructions shall have the same force and effect as regulations until the adoption of regulations.