Section 16-601 - Authority to issue variable contracts(a)(1) A stock insurer or mutual insurer may issue individual and group variable life insurance contracts that provide for payment varying directly with the investment experience of a segregated asset account if the stock insurer or mutual insurer: (i) is authorized to issue life insurance contracts in the State; and(ii) is authorized by the Commissioner to issue individual and group variable life insurance contracts.(2) A stock insurer or mutual insurer may issue individual and group variable annuity contracts that provide for payment varying directly with the investment experience of a segregated asset account if the stock insurer or mutual insurer: (i) is authorized to issue annuity contracts in the State; and(ii) is authorized by the Commissioner to issue individual and group variable annuity contracts.(b) To be authorized to issue variable contracts, a stock insurer or mutual insurer shall comply with regulations adopted by the Commissioner.(c) The regulations of the Commissioner may include: (1) requirements for a minimum capital and surplus in excess of the amount otherwise required for the issuance of life insurance contracts and annuity contracts that are not variable contracts; and(2) other requirements that the Commissioner considers appropriate to safeguard the interests of variable contract holders, other policyholders, insurers, and the public.