(a) An employee is eligible to elect portability for Option B if:   (1) His/her coverage is terminating due to separation or completion of 12 months in nonpay status; and   (2) He/she has had Option B for the 5 years of service immediately before the date the coverage would otherwise terminate, or for the full period(s) of service during which he/she was eligible to have Option B, if less than 5 years.

(b) If the employee has assigned his/her coverage as provided in subpart I of this part, it is the assignee who has the right to elect portability.