Four additional states have adopted a different method that would also make it easier for mutual insurers to raise capital.

In the past, when mutual insurers wanted to issue stock, their only option was a full conversion to share ownership.

A lot of money is at stake in the mutual insurers' campaign.

Only about a half-dozen major mutual insurers have gone through the complex process in the last decade.

But analysts have generally praised its decision to try to become the largest mutual insurer ever to go public.

If successful, it seems likely that other mutual insurers, also badly in need of new capital, will follow suit.

The choice of mutual insurer is up to the individual.

We've always said mutual insurers offer the best value.

The company converted from a policyholder-owned mutual insurer last year.

Some of the biggest mutual insurers have been reorganizing so that they can issue stock for acquisitions.