(a) The commissioner may confer all powers of a police officer of this state, including, but not limited to, the power to make summary arrests for violations of any of the criminal laws of this state and the power to carry weapons, upon wardens of county correctional institutions and upon persons in the commissioner's employment as the commissioner deems necessary, provided that individuals so designated meet the requirements specified in all applicable laws.

(b) The commissioner or his designee may authorize certain persons in his employment to assist law enforcement officers or correctional officers of local governments in preserving order and peace when so requested by such local authorities.