(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the board may contract with carriers licensed and doing business in other states to provide health benefits for employees and annuitants who reside outside of this state. The contracts shall be on terms as the board deems necessary or desirable. The health benefit plans are not necessarily required to meet the minimum requirements of the board, as specified in board regulations, but shall provide appropriate safeguards for members.
(b)
An out-of-state employee may enter into a group health benefit plan provided by an out-of-state health maintenance organization, group insurance policy, group service agreement, membership or subscription contract, or other similar group arrangement provided by a carrier for the purpose of providing, arranging, paying for, or reimbursing the cost of health benefits and that is in operation in the community or area where the employee’s duties are usually performed. These contracts, plans, agreements, arrangements, or policies shall meet with the approval of, or meet standards approved by, the board.