The department shall develop, administer, and cause to be implemented a program of protective services for vulnerable adults consistent with this chapter. In developing and administering the program, the department, within the limits of legislative appropriation, shall allocate and distribute funds for the purpose of providing adult protective services. All law enforcement agencies, courts of competent jurisdiction, and appropriate state and local agencies shall cooperate in the implementation and enforcement of this chapter. The department may adopt rules in accordance with chapter 28-32 for the purpose of implementing the provisions of this chapter.
N.D.C.C. § 50-25.2-02