Officers and employees of the state may authorize the direct deposit by electronic fund transfer of their salary or wages, after any withholding required by law and authorized deductions, into an account at the financial institution of their choice under a program for direct deposit by electronic transfer established pursuant to Section 12481. The direct deposit shall discharge the obligation of the Controller with respect to the drawing and issuance of warrants for the salaries or wages of the state officers and employees authorizing the direct deposit.