(a) The board is directed to prescribe regulations governing the custody, use, and preservation of the records, papers, files, and communications of the Department of Human Resources, including the county departments, relating to public assistance. Except as otherwise provided in this Code section, such regulations shall provide safeguards restricting the use or disclosure of information concerning applicants for or recipients of public assistance to purposes directly connected with the administration of public assistance. The board is authorized in its discretion to include in such regulations provision for the public to have access to the records of disbursement or payment of public assistance made after March 30, 1965.

(b) No person who obtains information by virtue of any regulation made pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall use such information for commercial or political purposes.

(c) Any person violating subsection (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.