As used in §§ 8-618 - 8-622 the following definitions shall apply:
The term "service" shall mean and include the period of time such person served as a member of the general assembly, and he shall receive credit toward his retirement hereunder for such period of time served as a member of the general assembly. Such person shall pay to the state treasurer in a lump sum a total contribution equal to six per cent (6%) of the compensation he received as a member of the general assembly, including interest at the rate of three per cent (3%) per annum. The contribution and interest shall be paid on or before June 30, 1969.
The term "service" shall also mean and include the period of time any such person now has to his credit in the regular state employees' retirement system. Such person shall receive credit toward his retirement hereunder for such service, provided his accumulated contributions paid into such other retirement system shall be transferred to this system.
T.C.A. § 8-618