(a) The provisions of this Part relate to the procedure to be followed in appeals from orders issued by the Commissioner of Labor pursuant to article 5 of the New York State Defense Emergency Act.

(b) See Part 65 of this Title for general rules of procedure and practice not specified in this Part.

(c) During the 1951 legislative session, the Legislature enacted the New York State Defense Emergency Act, which became a law April 12, 1951 and, as amended, is still in force. Article 5 of this act authorizes the Commissioner of Labor in appropriate cases to grant to employers engaged in defense work dispensations from requirements imposed by or pursuant to law which prevent or interfere with maximum possible production, and also to permit operation or employment in such defense work:

(d) Any person in interest who is aggrieved by a determination of the Commissioner of Labor with respect to an application under the said act may, within 20 days after the date of notice of such determination by the Commissioner of Labor, appeal the commissioner's findings and decision to the board. In such proceedings the board acts as an administrative appellate tribunal and is empowered to affirm, reverse or modify the initial determination rendered by the commissioner. The board gives such appeals priority over all other matters.