§ 16-17.1-1 - Definitions.
SECTION 16-17.1-1
§ 16-17.1-1 Definitions. – The following words and phrases as used in this chapter, unless a differentmeaning is plainly required by the context, have the following meanings:
(1) "Average compensation" means the average of the annualcontractual or yearly salary of an employee during the five (5) consecutiveyears of employment when average compensation was the highest either: (i) as anemployee under the program, or (ii) as a member of the state employeesretirement system.
(2) "Board" means the board of regents for higher education.
(3) "Employees" means presidents, professors, instructors, orother employees of the board who are eligible to participate in any retirementprogram by virtue of the terms of the program and who are exempt from the meritsystem; except as provided in this chapter, if an employee of the board whoparticipates in the program shall change classifications, he or she shall havethe option to remain with the program.
(4) "Retirement program" and "program" means any retirementprogram adopted by the board of regents for higher education for any of itsemployees as defined in this section.
(5) "State colleges" means the University of Rhode Island,Rhode Island College, Community College of Rhode Island, and any otheruniversities, colleges, or schools under the jurisdiction of the board.
(6) "State employees retirement system" means the retirementsystem existing by virtue of chapters 8 – 10 of title 36 and madeapplicable to employees by chapter 17 of this title.