1. For any proposed change in plan benefits, the expense of having the cost statement prepared shall be assured before the legislative body may take final action to approve a proposed substantial change in plan benefits.

2. The expense of having the cost statement prepared shall be paid by the plan if the substantial proposed change is initiated or approved by the plan’s governing board.

3. When the general assembly is the legislative body considering a proposed change in plan benefits, the joint committee on public employee retirement, upon approval by a majority of the statutory number of senators serving on the committee and approval of a majority of the statutory number of representatives serving on the committee, may assume the expense of preparing a cost statement required by sections 105.660 to 105.685 by employing or contracting with an actuary or actuaries who possess the qualifications required by the provisions of sections 105.660 to 105.685 upon such terms as may be agreed upon and within the limits of appropriations made therefor, or may order the plan to provide such statement.

4. If the expense of preparing the cost statement is not assured by reason of subsection 2 or 3 above, the expense shall be paid by the individual, group of individuals, department or agency seeking such proposed change.