(1) An agent appointed under ORS 471.750 may participate in a health benefit plan available to state employees pursuant to ORS 243.105 to 243.285 at the expense of the agent and may participate in the state deferred compensation plan established under ORS 243.401 to 243.507. For such purposes, agents shall be considered eligible state employees.
(2) A person who is the surviving spouse or child of a deceased agent or the spouse or child of an agent of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission who has a disability shall be given preference in the appointment of a successor agent, if otherwise qualified, the spouse having greater preference. The experience of such applicant in the business operation of the deceased agent or the agent who has a disability shall be the primary consideration in determining the qualifications of the applicant.