(1) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person currently employed by the department of state who was previously a regional employee shall be treated as a state employee as of the date of employment with the department of state and entitled to all benefits received by regional employees pursuant to this part.
(2) The personnel officer or appointing authority of the employee of the regional library shall be responsible for certifying entitlement to such sick leave, annual leave, and longevity credit to the department of state.