Section 169. Delegation of powers and immunities in regard to dutch elm disease in municipalities

The powers and  immunities  prescribed  and  granted  in  sections one hundred sixty-four, one hundred sixty-five and
  one hundred sixty-seven of this article may, within the  limits  of  any
  municipality,  be  exercised and enjoyed by the appropriate officers and
  employees of such municipality with respect and in regard to  the  dutch
  elm  disease,  if  with  the  approval of the commissioner and under the
  direction of the commissioner or his representative  and  if  the  local
  legislative  body  of  any  such  municipality by local law or ordinance
  elects to exercise and enjoy such powers and immunities.