When the Michigan Department of Agriculture was organized in 1921, its administration was directed by a Commission of Agriculture appointed by the governor. Between 1921 and 1945, the Department had 11 commissioners, which, it was argued, weakened policy formation and implementation. In an effort to solve this and other problems, the Department was re-organized in 1944. This change inaugurated a 5-person bipartisan Commission of Agriculture that was appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate. The Commission was empowered to select and appoint a Director of Agriculture, to whom executive power was transferred. In this way it was hoped the Department would gain greater administrative stability.
From the description of Records of the Executive Office of the Michigan Department of Agriculture, 1945-1980. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 277093798
