Notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, members and former members of the general assembly, whose term of office began prior to June 30, 1976, shall be entitled to a full retirement allowance based on their years of creditable service in accordance with §§ 8-34-616, 8-36-206 - 8-36-209 and 8-36-707.
T.C.A. § 8-36-103