Section 4a of chapter 1 of the Revised Statutes of 1846, being section 8.4a of the Michigan Compiled Laws, is applicable to this code. In addition, an action or other proceeding lawfully commenced by or against an agency or an officer of this state, in his or her official capacity in relation to the discharge of official duties, including a proceeding against a licensee, registrant, or permittee, does not abate because the agency or officer is superseded by another agency or office created by this code. The court may allow the action or other proceeding to be maintained by or against the successor of the agency or officer.