Section 50-12-25. Powers and authority of Department of Economic Development as to council

   The Department of Economic Development shall have the powers and authority necessary to carry out the purposes established by this article, including, but not limited to, the powers:

   (1) To establish overall policy for grant awards, evaluations, and programs recommended by the council;

   (2) To hold hearings, make and sign any agreements, and do and perform any acts which may be necessary, desirable, or proper to carry out the purposes of this article;

   (3) To request from any department, division, board, bureau, commission, or other agency of the state such reasonable assistance and data as will enable it properly to carry out its powers and duties;

   (4) To accept, on behalf of the state, any federal funds granted by act of Congress or by executive order for all or any of the purposes of this article; and, upon appropriation by the General Assembly, to expend such funds for the purposes set forth in the appropriations Act;

   (5) To accept any grants, gifts, donations, or bequests for all or any of the purposes of this article;

   (6) To propose methods to encourage private initiative in the arts; and

   (7) To advise and consult with the Governor; the General Assembly; national foundations; and other local, state, and federal departments and agencies on methods to coordinate and assist existing resources and facilities, with the purpose of fostering artistic and cultural endeavors generally.

Ga. L. 1976, p. 748, § 6; Ga. L. 1986, p. 174, § 2; Ga. L. 1992, p. 6, § 50; Ga. L. 2011, p. 514, § 4/HB 264.