(a)
An annuitant may, as provided by regulations of the board, continue his or her enrollment, enroll within 60 days of retirement, enroll within 60 days of the death of the member, or enroll during any future open enrollment period without discrimination as to premium rates or benefit coverage. If the survivor of an annuitant is also an annuitant as defined in this part, he or she may enroll within 60 days of the annuitant’s death or during any future open enrollment period, as provided by regulations of the board.
(b)
Board rules and regulations shall provide whatever provisions necessary to eliminate or minimize the impact of adverse selection because of the enrollment of annuitants that would affect any health benefit plans approved or maintained. This may include the reimbursement of surcharges for late enrollment in Part B of Medicare if the board determines that payment of the surcharge would be less costly than continued enrollment in a basic plan.