§7-3-17. Construction.

The provisions of sections fourteen, fifteen and sixteen of this article shall be construed as conferring separate and additional powers as herein set forth and shall be deemed full authority for the acquisition, improvement, extension, maintenance and operation of the hospital, clinic, long-term care facility or other related facility and for the issuance and sale of the bonds by this article authorized: Provided, That all pertinent functions, powers and duties of the state department of health shall remain in effect.