AUTHORITY TO ADOPT RULES AND PROCEDURES; OTHER AUTHORITY

(a) The trustee may adopt rules, plans, procedures, and orders reasonably necessary to implement this chapter, including: (1) minimum benefit and financing standards for group coverage for retirees, dependents, surviving spouses, and surviving dependent children; (2) group coverage for retirees, dependents, surviving spouses, and surviving dependent children; (3) procedures for contributions and deductions; (4) periods for enrollment and selection of coverage and procedures for enrolling and exercising options under the group program; (5) procedures for claims administration; (6) procedures to administer the fund; and (7) a timetable for: (A) developing minimum benefit and financial standards for group coverage; (B) establishing health benefit plans offered under the group program; and (C) taking bids and awarding contracts for health benefit plans offered under the group program. (b) The trustee may: (1) study the operation of all group coverage provided under this chapter; and (2) contract for advice and counsel in implementing and administering the group program with independent and experienced group insurance consultants and actuaries.