Section 26.1-08-02.2 - Powers and duties of commissioner and board - Fees1. The lead carrier shall operate the association subject to the supervision and control of the board.2. The board shall: a. Formulate general policies to advance the purposes of this chapter;b. Approve the association's contract with the lead carrier;c. Approve the benefit plans;d. Approve the benefit plan premiums;e. Establish and modify from time to time, as appropriate, agents' referral fees;f. Approve the annual operating budget and any assessments to the participating members;g. Approve independent annual audits to assure the general accuracy of the financial data submitted by the lead carrier for the association;h. Develop and implement a program to publicize the existence of the association, the eligibility requirements, and procedures for enrollment and to maintain public awareness of the association;i. Approve bylaws and operating rules;j. Exempt, by a two-thirds majority vote, an applicant from the pre-existing condition provisions of subsection 13 of section 26.1-08-12 when required under emergency circumstances to allow the applicant access to medical procedures determined to be necessary to preserve life; andk. Provide for other matters as may be necessary and proper for the execution of the commissioner's and board's powers, duties, and obligations.3. The commissioner, board, and lead carrier employees are not liable for any obligations of the association.4. The commissioner may establish additional powers and duties of the board and may adopt rules necessary and proper for the association and to implement this chapter.