Section 102. Powers of public welfare officials to bring and defend suits

A public welfare official responsible, by or pursuant to  any  provision
  of this chapter, for the administration of the public assistance or care
  granted  or  applied for is empowered to bring proceedings in a court of
  competent jurisdiction
    1.  to compel any person liable by law for support  to  contribute  to
  the  support of any person cared for at public expense, or person liable
  to become so dependent.  A bond may be required of  such  person  liable
  for support to indemnify the public welfare district against the cost of
  the support of such person;
    2.    to  recover  penalties,  forfeitures  and  prosecute  any bonds,
  undertakings and recognizances;
    3.  and defend in any court all matters relating  to  the  support  of
  persons at public expense.