Section 404 - Regulations for protection of information(a) The department shall have the power to make and enforce regulations: (1) To protect the names of applicants for and recipients of public assistance from improper publication, and to restrict the use of information furnished to other agencies or persons to purposes connected with the administration of public assistance. Upon request by any adult resident of the Commonwealth, the department may furnish the address and amount of assistance with respect to persons about whom inquiry is made; but, information so obtained shall not be used for commercial or political purposes; and, no information shall be furnished regarding any person's application for, or receipt of, medical assistance.(2) To protect the rights and interests of persons about whom personal or confidential information is in its possession.(b) The regulations shall not prevent or interfere with investigations by proper authorities as to the rights of persons to receive assistance or as to the amounts of assistance received.1967, June 13, P.L. 31, No. 21, art. 4, § 404. Amended 1968, July 31, P.L. 904, No. 273, § 1.