For the purposes of this act the term "public employee" shall mean any person who occupies any office, position or employment in the government of the State of New Jersey, or the several counties and municipalities thereof, or any political subdivision of the State, or a school district, or any special district, or any authority, commission, board, or any branch or agency of the public service. This term shall include, but shall not be limited to, elected and appointed persons.
N.J.S. § 2A:81-17.2a