A private purchasing alliance may not market, sell, offer or arrange for a package of one or more health benefit plans underwritten by one or more carriers without first being licensed by the superintendent. The superintendent shall specify by rule standards and procedures for the issuance and renewal of licenses for private purchasing alliances. A rule may require an application fee of not more than $400 and an annual license fee of not more than $100. A license may not be issued until the rulemaking required by this chapter has been undertaken and all required rules are in effect. Dirigo Health, as established in chapter 87, is exempt from the licensure requirements of this section as an independent executive agency of the State. [PL 2003, c. 469, Pt. E, §8 (AMD).]