As used in this chapter, unless the context
otherwise requires, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
EMPLOYEE
Any person holding a position by election, appointment or
employment in the service of the Town, but shall not include a volunteer,
any person not compensated for his services or an independent contractor.
The term "employee" shall include a former employee, his estate or
judicially appointed personal representative.
The benefits of this chapter will inure only
to the employees as defined herein and shall not enlarge or diminish
the rights of any other party, nor shall any provision of this chapter
be construed to affect, alter or repeal any provisions of the Workers'
Compensation Law.
The benefits of this chapter shall be extended
to an employee of a negotiating unit for which an agreement has been
negotiated pursuant to Civil Service Law Article 14 only if such agreement
expressly so provided.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be
construed to impair, alter, limit or modify the rights and obligations
of any insurer under any policy of insurance.
As otherwise specifically provided in this chapter,
the provisions of this chapter shall not be construed in any way to
impair, alter, limit, modify, abrogate or restrict any immunity available
to or conferred upon any unit, entity, officer or employee of the
Town or any right to defense provided for any governmental officer
or employee by, in accordance with, or by reason, any other provision
of state or federal statutory or common law.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to
all actions and proceedings specified herein which have been commenced,
instituted or brought on or after the effective date of this chapter.