The commissioner may enter into agreements or cooperative arrangements with any person, firm or corporation for the purpose of advertising and increasing the sale and consumption of Maine farm products or disseminating information concerning Maine farm products. The commissioner may receive, administer and disburse any funds or contributions from these persons, firms or corporations, either independently or in conjunction with state funds allocated to the purpose, as long as funds so contributed are used only for the purposes set forth. The commissioner may employ such agents and assistants, subject to the Civil Service Law, and make such purchases as may be necessary in the proper performance of the commissioner’s duties. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §61 (COR).]