A. Credited Service Explained

1. General Rule
   You earn one year of Credited Service for each calendar year in which you earn 1,000 hours or more of Credited Service. Prior to January 1, 1976, Credited Service was granted only to the same extent and subject to the same limitations as Pension Credit. As of January 1, 1976, the definition of Credited Service was broadened to provide that Credited Service includes Pension Credit and certain hours for which you are in employment status with your Employer but for which no contributions to the Plan are required to be made on your behalf, as explained in paragraphs 2 and 3 below.
   
2. Contiguous Non-Covered Employment
   Credited Service also includes hours of employment with an Employer in a job classification which is neither covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement nor a Subscription Agreement and does not require contributions for hours worked. However, Credited Service is granted only if such work occurs immediately before or immediately after a job in Covered Employment with the same Employer which requires contributions for hours worked. This is known as Contiguous Non-Covered Employment. There may be no break in employment continuity between your Non-Covered Employment and your Covered Employment.
   
3. Pregnancy, Adoption and Care of Newborn
   To the extent required by applicable law only, up to 501 hours may be counted as Credited Service for hours of absence due to pregnancy, birth of your child, time involved in adoption of a child or caring for your child for a period immediately following birth or adoption.