California Code, Government Code - GOV § 8589.76

(a) Accept grant awards, donations, and contributions from public agencies, private foundations, or individuals.

(b) Contract for or employ any professional services and research required by the commission or required for the performance of necessary work and services which, in the commission's opinion, cannot satisfactorily be performed by its officers and employees or by other federal, state, or local governmental agencies.

(c) Encourage and support research related to seismic safety.

(d) Recommend the addition, deletion, or changing of state agency guidelines or standards to reduce damage from earthquakes or increase seismic safety when new developments would promote earthquake hazard mitigation.

(e) Develop findings and recommendations on lessons learned that lead to reduced losses and rapid economic recovery, following a destructive earthquake.

(f) Establish and maintain working relationships with any boards, commissions, departments, agencies, or other public or private organizations.

(g) Gather, analyze, and disseminate information related to seismic safety.

(h) Do any and all other things necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.