(a) For those coverage plans that the board of trustees funds from the employees life, accident, and health insurance and benefits fund, the board may contract with one or more qualified and experienced administering firms to administer the plans in the best interest of the participants in the group benefits program.
(b) The contract may be awarded only after a competitive bid process. The board of trustees is not required to select the lowest bid but shall take into consideration other relevant criteria, including ability to service large group programs and past experience.

(c) If the board of trustees selects a firm whose bid was not the lowest or whose bid differs from that specified, the board shall fully justify and explain the reasons for the action in the minutes of the next meeting of the board.