From July 1, 1997, to June 30, 1999, special deputy sheriffs shall be subject to the provisions of chapter 68, except that said special deputies shall not be allowed to petition the Connecticut State Board of Labor Relations to form a bargaining unit prior to July 1, 1999. On and after July 1, 1999, special deputy sheriffs shall be subject to the provisions of chapters 66 to 68, inclusive.