A foreign corporation which before January 1, 1969 has received a certificate of authority which is still valid, or which shall on or after January 1, 1969 receive a certificate of authority, shall, until a certificate of revocation or of withdrawal shall have been issued as provided in this Chapter:

(1)  Be authorized to transact business in this state, subject to such limitations as may be recited in the certificate of authority;

(2)  Enjoy the same, but no greater, rights and privileges as a business or nonprofit corporation organized under the laws of this state to transact the business which such foreign corporation is authorized to transact in this state; and

(3)  Except as in this Chapter otherwise provided, be subject to the same duties, restrictions, penalties and liabilities imposed on or after January 1, 1969 upon a business or nonprofit corporation of like character organized under the laws of this state.  

Acts 1968, No. 105, §1.