(a) For the purpose of determining the benefits calculated under §§ 23-81-306 and 23-81-307, in the case of annuity contracts under which an election may be made to have annuity payments commence at optional maturity dates, the maturity date shall be deemed to be the latest date for which election shall be permitted by the contract. This date shall not be deemed to be later than the anniversary of the contract next following the annuitant's seventieth birthday or the tenth anniversary of the contract, whichever is later.
(b) This section does not apply to annuities funding funeral and related expenses.