(A) A domestic fraternal benefit society may amend its laws in accordance with the provisions of its laws by action of its supreme governing body at any regular or special meeting of that body or, if its laws so provide, by referendum. A referendum may be held in accordance with the provisions of its laws by the vote of the voting members of the society, by the vote of delegates or representatives of voting members, or by the vote of local lodges. A society may provide for voting by mail. No amendment submitted for adoption by referendum shall be adopted unless, within six months after the date of submission, a majority of the members voting have signified their consent to the amendment by one of the methods specified in this section.

(B) No amendment to the laws of any domestic society shall take effect unless approved by the superintendent of insurance, who shall approve the amendment if the superintendent finds that it has been duly adopted and is not inconsistent with any requirement of the laws of this state or with the character, objects, and purposes of the society. Unless the superintendent disapproves an amendment within sixty days after its filing, the amendment shall be considered to be approved. The approval or disapproval of the superintendent shall be in writing and shall be mailed to the secretary or corresponding officer of the society at its principal office. If the superintendent disapproves the amendment, the reasons for the disapproval shall be stated in the written notice.

(C) Within ninety days after an amendment is approved by the superintendent, the amendment or a synopsis of the amendment shall be furnished to all members of the society either by mail or by publication in full in the official publication of the society. The affidavit of any officer of the society or of anyone authorized by it to mail an amendment or synopsis, stating facts that show that the amendment or synopsis has been duly addressed and mailed, is prima facie evidence that the amendment or synopsis has been furnished the addressee.

(D) Every foreign or alien society authorized to do business in this state shall file with the superintendent a duly certified copy of all amendments of, or additions to, its laws within ninety days after their enactment.

(E) Printed copies of the laws as amended, certified by the secretary or corresponding officer of the society, are prima facie evidence of their legal adoption.

Effective Date: 01-01-1997 .