(a) The department may make or cause to be made such investigation as it deems necessary to carry out its duties under this division.

(b) The chief of enforcement and all investigators, inspectors, and deputies of the department identified by the director have the authority of peace officers while engaged in exercising the powers granted or performing the duties imposed upon them in investigating the laws administered by the department or commencing directly or indirectly any criminal prosecution arising from any investigation conducted under these laws. All persons herein referred to shall be deemed to be acting within the scope of employment with respect to all acts and matters set forth in this section.

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(c) The department may employ individuals, who are not peace officers, to provide investigative services.

(d) Notwithstanding any other law, the department may employ peace officers and shall be exempt from the requirements of § 13540 of the Penal Code.

(Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 70, Sec. 16. (AB 141) Effective July 12, 2021.)