(a) On July 1, 1995, all officers and employees who were engaged immediately prior to that date in the performance of powers, duties and functions transferred pursuant to Kan. Stat. Ann. §§ 74-623 through 74-627, and amendments thereto, and who are necessary to perform such powers, duties and functions, shall be transferred to and shall become officers and employees of the state corporation commission.

(b) Any officer or employee transferred pursuant to this section whether before or after amendment of this section on July 1, 1995, shall retain all retirement benefits and all rights of civil service which have accrued to or vested in such officer or employee prior to the officer’s or employee’s transfer. The service of each officer or employee so transferred shall be deemed to have been continuous. All transfers and any abolishments of personnel in the classified service under the Kansas civil service act shall be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and regulations adopted thereunder.