(a) An annuitant is not eligible to participate in a health benefit plan offered by the California Association of Highway Patrolmen unless the annuitant was enrolled in the California Highway Patrolmen Health Benefits Trust for a minimum of five years as an active employee.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), an annuitant that retires for disability before becoming eligible for service retirement may enroll in a health benefit plan offered by the California Association of Highway Patrolmen if otherwise eligible.

(c) Former members of the California State Police are eligible to participate in a health benefit plan offered by the California Association of Highway Patrolmen, pursuant to subdivision (a) or (b). Former members of the California State Police who transferred to the California Highway Patrol and retired before January 1, 2003, are exempt from the five-year requirement.

(d) This section only applies to persons who first became employees of the California Highway Patrol on or after January 1, 1994.

(Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 69, Sec. 22. Effective June 24, 2004.)