Maryland Code, Insurance § 8-401

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Benefit contract” means the agreement for provision of benefits authorized by § 8-432 of this subtitle.

(c) “Benefit member” means an adult member who is designated by the laws or rules of a society to be a benefit member under a benefit contract.

(d) “Certificate” means the document issued as written evidence of a benefit contract.

(e) “Laws” means a society's articles of incorporation, constitution, and bylaws, however designated.

(f) “Lodge” means subordinate member units of a society, known as camps, courts, councils, branches, or by any other designation.

(g) “Premiums” means premiums, rates, dues, or other required contributions by whatever name known that are payable under a certificate.

(h) “Rules” means all rules, regulations, or resolutions adopted by the supreme governing body or board of directors of a society which are intended to have general application to the members of the society.

(i) Unless the context requires otherwise, “society” means fraternal benefit society.