Section 71-1103. Power to sue

The  department  may  bring  actions,  suits  or proceedings as in its
  judgment may be necessary and proper to enable it to perform any of  the
  duties  imposed  upon  it by the provisions of article 15 except section
  15-1713 thereof as amended or to prevent the violation by any person  or
  public corporation of any of the provisions thereof; and may defend such
  actions,  suits  or  proceedings as may arise through the performance of
  any duties or functions imposed upon it by the provisions of article  15
  except section 15-1713 thereof, as amended.