The state shall pay premiums on insurance policies insuring its employees against liability from claims for bodily injuries, death or property damage made upon such employees while operating state-owned vehicles in the performance of, in connection with or incidental to their duties as state employees. Payment of such premiums shall be made from funds appropriated or otherwise available to the various departments and agencies of the state. The payment of such premiums shall not impose upon the state any liability whatsoever for the payment of damages as a result of a claim against the state employee.