§33-5-25. Mergers and consolidations of stock insurers.

(a) A domestic stock insurer of any kind may merge or consolidate with another domestic or foreign stock insurer by complying with the provisions of general law governing the merger or consolidation of stock corporations formed for profit, but subject to subsection (b), below.

(b) No such merger or consolidation shall be effectuated unless in advance thereof the plan, agreement and other supporting documents have been filed with and approved in writing by the commissioner. The commissioner shall give such approval within a reasonable time after such filing unless he finds such plan or agreement:

(1) Is contrary to law; or

(2) Inequitable to the stockholders of any domestic insurer involved; or

(3) Would substantially reduce the security of and service to be rendered to policyholders of the domestic insurer in West Virginia or elsewhere.

(c) If the commissioner does not approve any such plan or agreement he shall so notify the insurer in writing specifying his reasons therefor.