(a) Any duly authorized representative, agent or employee of the department of revenue who has been designated by the commissioner to enforce this chapter is authorized and empowered to execute search warrants and do all acts incident thereto, in the same manner as search warrants may be levied by sheriffs and other peace officers. Inspectors, agents, representatives or officers appointed by the commissioner shall be cloaked with and have the duty, power and authority as a police officer to enforce the revenue provisions of this chapter and in the illegal traffic of untaxed beer products. The highway patrol shall likewise have concurrent authority to assist in the enforcement of this chapter and in the illegal traffic of untaxed beer products.
(b) Any duly authorized representative or employee of the department who has been specifically designated by the commissioner to enforce § 57-5-409 is hereby authorized and empowered to go armed or carry a pistol while on active duty engaged in enforcing § 57-5-409.