(a) All state police officers first hired on or after April 3, 1997, shall be covered by the benefit provision of this subchapter.
(b)
(1) All state police officers who were hired prior to April 3, 1997, and who are active members of the State Police Retirement System on April 3, 1997, shall have twelve (12) months from April 3, 1997, to elect coverage under the benefit provisions of this subchapter, provided the person must be an active member on the date of the election.
(2) The election shall be made as directed by the Board of Trustees of the State Police Retirement System and shall be irrevocable.