As used in ORS 243.796 to 243.806:
(1) “Designated representative” means a public employee:
(a) Who is designated by the exclusive representative as a representative for the employees in a bargaining unit; and
(b) For whom:
(A) Reasonable paid time is granted under ORS 243.798; or
(B) Release time is granted under ORS 243.802.
(2) “Release time” means the period of time when a public employee who is a designated representative takes a leave of absence from the employee’s regular public employment to conduct labor organization business.
(3) “Retirement credit” has the meaning given that term in ORS 238.005.