The Director of Public Safety, subject to the provisions of the merit system, may appoint such clerical assistants, stenographers, or employees as may be necessary to discharge the duties imposed by this chapter. The salaries of such clerical assistants, stenographers, and employees and all expenses incurred incident to carrying out their duties shall be paid in the same manner as those of other state employees.
Ala. Code § 32-7-38 (1975)