A. Contributions to cover the cost of benefits provided under a cafeteria plan authorized by Section 3 [10-7-16 N.M. Stat. Ann.] of the Cafeteria Plan Act shall be paid by the eligible public employee pursuant to a salary reduction agreement. The agency is authorized to pay part or all of the administrative expenses therefor.

B. The agency may agree with an eligible public employee that the employee’s salary payment shall be reduced by an amount equal to the cost of benefits selected and to be paid for by the eligible public employee. Such reduction shall be made pursuant to salary reduction agreements entered into between eligible public employees and the agency.