(a) The Department of Health and Social Services may do whatever is necessary and proper to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(b) The Department of Health and Social Services may receive funds from any source whatsoever and may expend such funds in accordance with law.
(c) The Department of Health and Social Services, in addition to its other powers and duties, may conduct studies directly or indirectly affecting children and youth, including their physical and mental health and well-being, and may determine what action is needed to combat physical and mental disabilities generally.