2.1 General Participation Rules These participation rules apply to your service after June 30, 2001. See the Appendices for participation rules before that date. You become a Participant after you receive credit for 250 Contributory Hours in one Plan Year. The Plan Year is July 1 through June 30. EXAMPLE: In April 2006, Bill worked 150 hours in Covered Employment and then in May 2006, Bill worked another 100 Contributory Hours. Bill became a Participant on June 1, 2006, the first day of the month following the month he completes his 250th hour because he worked a total of 250 hours in one Plan Year. You continue as a Participant by working at least 250 Contributory Hours each Plan Year. If you do not satisfy this requirement, you cease to be a Participant unless you are vested.