Cal. Educ. Code § 27102

Part 5 (commencing with Section 220) of Division 2 of the Probate Code, when applicable, shall govern the distribution of any lump-sum death benefit payable under this part. In applying Part 5 (commencing with Section 220) of Division 2 of the Probate Code with respect to proceeds payable to a beneficiary, participation in the plan shall be considered as having the same status as an insurance policy issued after December 31, 1984.