(a) The commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(1) To determine the scope and nature of the studies and research to be undertaken by the commission, including, but not limited to:

(A) Educational needs of and opportunities for women;

(B) Social security and tax laws as they affect women;

(C) Women's health issues;

(D) Political, legal, civil, property, and social rights of women; and

(E) Employment policies in the public and private sector and their impact on the wage-earning capacity of women;

(2) To collect and disseminate information regarding the status of women in the State of Georgia and the nation;

(3) To review and analyze the laws of the State of Georgia and their impact on the lives of the women of this state;

(4) To consult with and advise the Governor, and any state department, agency, board, commission, or authority on matters pertaining to women;

(5) To cooperate with the government of the United States and the governments of other states in programs relating to women;

(6) To promote, encourage, and provide advisory assistance to state, local, and community women's professional, business, and civic organizations;

(7) To accept public or private grants, devises, and bequests; and

(8) To hold public hearings, conduct studies, or take any other action the commission deems necessary to fulfill its responsibilities.

(b) The commission shall be authorized to enter into all contracts or agreements necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties.

(c) All executive departments, agencies, boards, commissions, and authorities shall cooperate with the commission in the performance of its duties.