(1) In order to be designated as "qualified," small employer associations shall apply to the State Auditor's Office in a form approved by the commissioner.

(2) Only previously uninsured employers who become members of qualified associations, and their employees, will be eligible to receive premium assistance and incentive payments as a result of purchasing association group coverage.

(3) The State Auditor's Office will begin processing association applications on November 1, 2005.