This act shall not be deemed to affect any provision of chapter one hundred twelve of the laws of one thousand nine hundred and forty-four, nor any matter or proceeding pending before the director or the board at the time this act takes effect. This act shall not be deemed to require any reorganization of the board or of any advisory committee, nor the reappointment or redesignation of any officer or employee of the division. Each officer and employee of the division shall retain any and all rights and privileges pertinent to his status in the service of the State and, especially, with respect to the civil service and any pension or retirement law applicable to him.
N.J.S. § 52:27BB-96