New York Codes, Rules and Regulations
Title 21 - Miscellaneous
Chapter LVIII - New York State Teachers' Retirement System
Part 5009 - Vesting (deferred Retirement)
Section 5009.6 - Forfeitures

Forfeitures arising under the system for any reason may not be applied to increase the benefits of any members at any time prior to the termination of the system within the meaning of section 401(a)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code or any successor thereto. In the event of termination of the system or a complete or permanent discontinuance of contributions thereunder, the rights of members to accrued benefits, to the extent funded, will become vested to the extent required by, and upon the events set forth in, Treasury Regulation section 1.401 -6(a)(1) and Internal Revenue Code section 401(a)(4) and 401(a)(7) as in effect on September 1, 1974.