All the functions, powers and duties of the existing Department of Institutions and Agencies and the commissioner thereof not herein transferred to the Department of Corrections are continued; provided, however, that the Department of Institutions and Agencies continued hereunder shall hereinafter be known and referred to as the Department of Human Services. With respect to the functions, powers and duties of the Department of Institutions and Agencies not herein transferred to the Department of Corrections, whenever in any law, rule, regulation, judicial or administrative proceeding or otherwise, reference is made to the Department of Institutions and Agencies, or to the Commissioner of Institutions and Agencies, the same shall mean and refer to the Department of Human Services and the Commissioner of Human Services, respectively.

L.1976, c. 98, s. 25, eff. Nov. 1, 1976.