In providing for the continuance of coverage after retirement of employees and their dependents as authorized by section 2 of this act and notwithstanding any of the provisions of section 2 to the contrary, the employer may assume the entire cost of such coverage and pay all the premiums for employees who have retired after 25 years' or more service with the employer, including the premiums on their dependents, if any, under such uniform conditions as the governing body shall prescribe.
N.J.S. § 40A:10-34.3