NC H1998

Amends G.S. 135-4.1(a) to include service standing from the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) when determining eligibility for benefits under the Teachers and State Employees Retirement System.

Allows creditable service from retired members of the ORP to be counted toward eligibility, consistent with how service from the Legislative Retirement System, Consolidated Judicial Retirement System, and Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System are treated.

Clarifies that service credits from the ORP are added only for determining eligibility purposes and not for calculating benefit accrual rates unless specifically authorized by statute.

Effective upon becoming law, ratified June 28, 2010, and approved by the Governor on July 1, 2010.