(1) A sheriff may not employ an individual as a deputy sheriff unless the individual:
(a) is a graduate of an accredited high school or the equivalent;
(b) is of good moral character;
(c) has never been convicted of a felony;
(d) has not within 5 years immediately preceding the date of employment been affiliated in any manner with a subversive organization; and
(e) has been examined by a physician licensed to practice in the state of Montana within 30 days immediately preceding the date of employment and has been pronounced in good physical condition.
(2) This section is not applicable to any deputy sheriff whose term of employment commenced prior to March 2, 1967.