CHARLESTON — Sen. Mike Azinger, R-Wood, Thursday was named chairman of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee.

He succeeds Jeff Mullins, a Republican from Raleigh County, who resigned on Jan. 12. Mullins cited increased business and family obligations.

The appointment was immediate, Senate President Mitch Carmichael, R-Jackson, said.

Azinger, who was a member of the House of Delegates, was elected in 2016 to fill an unexpired term in the 3rd District. He will continue as vice chairman of the Interstate Cooperation Committee and is on the Judiciary, Education, Health and Human Resources, Confirmations, Military and Enrolled Bills committees.