Upon request of any State department, agency or institution, use and occupancy and business interruption insurance shall be provided on state-owned property of such department, agency or institution which is insured by the State Property Fire Insurance Fund.  Premiums for such insurance coverage shall be paid by each requesting department, agency or institution in accordance with rates fixed by the Commissioner.  Losses covered by such insurance may be paid for out of the State Property Fire Insurance Fund in the same manner as fire losses.  The Commissioner, with the approval of the Governor and Council of State, is authorized and empowered to purchase from insurers admitted to do business in North Carolina such insurance or reinsurance as may be necessary to protect the State Property Fire Insurance Fund against loss with respect to such insurance coverage. (1957, c. 67; 1991, c. 720, s. 4.)