§ 219-j. Purpose. It is hereby declared that this article is intended to effectuate the objects and purposes of section eighteen of article one of the constitution and that the relationship between the political subdivision liable for payments of service awards under this article and a volunteer ambulance worker entitled to such payments is that of employer and employee within the meaning of such provision of the constitution. In no event shall the receipt of a service award under the provisions of this article be deemed to constitute membership in any pension or retirement system of the state or of a civil division thereof within the purview of section seven of article five of the constitution.