O.C.G.A. § 50-8-1: Creation and continuation of department.

The Department of Community Affairs is created as a department of the executive branch of state government. The Department of Community Affairs, as it existed immediately prior to July 1, 1989, shall continue to exist as a department of the executive branch of state government in accordance with this article. From and after July 1, 1989, the Department of Community Affairs shall have the duties, responsibilities, functions, power, and authority set forth in this article and otherwise provided by law.