Section 15-5-418 - Election of membership(a) A "paid fireman" as defined in W.S. 15-5-201(a)(xi) may elect to become a member, as defined in this article by filing an election with the board not later than December 31, 1981, or within thirty (30) days of return to service, if later, for any paid fireman who leaves service prior to July 1, 1981.(b) Commencing January 1, 1982, or thirty (30) days after return to service, if later, an electing member is covered by the provisions of this article, and all rights to a pension under W.S. 15-5-201 through 15-5-209 are extinguished. The member shall receive credited service for all prior service, not to exceed ten (10) years, which was recognized under W.S. 15-5-201 through 15-5-209. However, that credit may be reinstated only by payment of any contributions previously refunded with interest at the rate of eight percent (8%) per annum from the date of refund.