In addition to any other powers granted by law, the board may, for the purposes of this chapter, do any or all of the following:

1. (a) Obtain insurance against loss by fire or other hazards on public buildings, both during and after construction, and obtain insurance against loss of revenues from any causes whatsoever, for the protection of the holders of bonds.

2. (b) Issue notes, including commercial paper notes or other forms of short-term negotiable indebtedness, and bond anticipation notes as provided in this part to obtain interim funds to pay the cost of public buildings, secure the payment of notes, including commercial paper notes or other forms of short-term negotiable indebtedness, and bond anticipation notes and interest thereon as provided in this part, and provide for the security of notes, including commercial paper notes or other forms of short-term negotiable indebtedness, and bond anticipation notes and the rights of the holders thereof.

   The board may authorize the preparation of bid proposals for the construction of projects prior to obtaining interim financing. However, no contracts to be funded with proceeds from the sale of bonds shall be executed until interim financing is available to the board.

3. (c) Obtain and assign options to purchase prison facility sites authorized by the Legislature.