The department, in conjunction and consultation with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and within available appropriations, may: (1) Establish, promote and maintain a public information program on Vietnam herbicides which shall include, but not be limited to, an extensive effort to identify and contact veterans who may have been exposed to such herbicides; (2) establish, maintain and promote a reporting process for veterans who were exposed to Vietnam herbicides; (3) initiate education for health professionals to assist them in understanding the potential risks and state-of-art knowledge with regard to detection, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic symptoms associated with Vietnam herbicide exposure; and (4) refer veterans to appropriate state and federal agencies for the purpose of filing claims to remedy medical and financial problems caused by exposure to Vietnam herbicides. The commissioner may enter into agreements with nonprofit veterans’ organizations in the state to provide these services.