For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter the secretary may employ all help necessary in arranging for and transporting such alien and nonresident sexual psychopaths, psychopathic delinquents, or mentally ill persons, and the cost and expense of providing such assistance, and all expenses incurred in effecting the transportation of such alien and nonresident sexual psychopaths, psychopathic delinquents, or mentally ill persons, shall be paid from the funds appropriated for that purpose upon vouchers approved by the department. Mentally ill person for the purposes of this section shall be any person defined as mentally ill under RCW
72.23.010, as now or hereafter amended.