(a) The department may apply to any appropriate agency or officer of the United States for participation in or the receipt of aid from any federal program relating to water safety, including:
(1) the acquisition, maintenance, and operating costs of facilities;
(2) purchase of equipment and supplies;
(3) personnel salaries; and
(4) other federally approved reimbursable expenses, including personnel training costs, public boat safety and education costs, and general administrative and enforcement costs.
(b) The department may contract with the United States in order to comply with all necessary requirements for the receipt of funds made available under any federal legislation.