(a) The Commissioner, or his deputy or examiner may visit and examine into the affairs of any domestic or foreign mutual benefit society. He may employ assistants for the purpose of such examination, and he or his deputy, or examiner, shall have free access to all the books, papers, and documents that relate to the business of the society and may summon and qualify as witnesses under oath and examine its officers, agents, and employees or other persons in relation to the affairs, transactions, and condition of the society.
(b) The expense of such examination shall be paid by the society examined, upon statement furnished by the Commissioner and the examination shall be made at least once in two years.