The commissioner of human resources, in carrying out his obligations under subsection (b) of Code Section 33-21-3, paragraph (4) of subsection (a) of Code Section 33-21-5, and subsection (b) of Code Section 33-21-17, may contract with qualified persons to make recommendations concerning the determinations required to be made by him. Such recommendations may be accepted in full or in part by the commissioner of human resources.