A person covered by a group hospital or medical service plan contract, issued or renewed by a health service corporation after October 1, 1981, may, for a period of 1 year with the consent of the employer or the trustees, continue coverage under the group contract during the person's employment notwithstanding any reduction of the person's regular work schedule to less than the minimum time required to qualify for membership in the group, and the premium charged must be equal to that charged the members of the group.
§ 33-30-1006, MCA