Mississippi Code Title 25. Public Officers and Employees; Public Records § 25-11-141

The board of trustees may enter into an agreement with insurance companies, hospital service associations, medical or health care corporations, health maintenance organizations, or government agencies authorized to do business in the state for issuance of a policy or contract of life, health, medical, hospital or surgical benefits, or any combination thereof, for those persons receiving a service, disability or survivor retirement allowance from any system administered by the board. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the policy or contract also may include coverage for the spouse and dependent children of such eligible person and for such sponsored dependents as the board considers appropriate. If all or any portion of the policy or contract premium is to be paid by any person receiving a service, disability or survivor retirement allowance, such person shall, by written authorization, instruct the board to deduct from the retirement allowance the premium cost and to make payments to such companies, associations, corporations or agencies.

The board may contract for such coverage on the basis that the cost of the premium for the coverage will be paid by the person receiving a retirement allowance.

The board is authorized to accept bids for such optional coverage and benefits and to make all necessary rules pursuant to the purpose and intent of this section.