As used in this article, the following terms have the meanings set forth in this section unless the context otherwise requires:
(a) “Organization” includes any lodge, order, beneficial association, fraternal or beneficial society or association, historical, military, or veterans organization, labor union, or any other similar society, organization, or association or degree, branch, subordinate lodge, or auxiliary thereof.
(b) “Name and Ownership.” Name is that name that has first been adopted and used by an organization within or beyond the limits of this state, which name has been registered in the Office of the Secretary of State, and the name of any organization that has complied with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 17900) of Part 3 of Division 7, unless the name conflicts with a name duly registered in the Office of the Secretary of State prior to the compliance with those provisions, and any organization that has so first adopted and used the name is its original owner.
(Amended by Stats. 2006, Ch. 538, Sec. 21. Effective January 1, 2007.)