In order to extend to employees of the state and its political subdivisions, and to the dependents and survivors of such employees, the basic protection accorded to others by the old-age and survivors insurance system embodied in the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.), it is hereby declared to be the policy of the general assembly, subject to the limitations of this chapter, that such steps be taken as to provide such protection to employees of the state and its political subdivisions.