(a) The Commissioner of Labor is authorized to grant exemptions to certain categories of organizations and businesses for the purpose of exempting them from the operation of this chapter. The exemptions so granted shall be based upon considerations of the value of allowing certain classes of persons to be employed at rates below the minimum rate because of overriding considerations of public policy to allow employment of certain persons with disabilities and others who cannot otherwise compete effectively in the labor market.

(b) The Commissioner of Labor is authorized to conduct investigations and compile information as to the reasons for granting exemptions to certain organizations and businesses pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section. The Commissioner is required to maintain a list of such exemptions, along with the records of the investigations conducted and the basis for the granting of such exemptions, which list and records shall be a public record.