(a) In this section, “affiliate” has the meaning described by Section 823.003.
(b) For purposes of this chapter, health benefit plan issuers that are affiliates or that are eligible to file a consolidated tax return are considered to be one issuer, and a restriction imposed by this chapter applies as if the health benefit plans delivered or issued for delivery to small employers in this state by the affiliates were issued by one issuer.

(c) Notwithstanding Subsection (b), a health maintenance organization that is an affiliate is considered to be a separate health benefit plan issuer for purposes of this chapter.