(1) The purpose of this chapter is to protect, subject to certain limitations, the persons specified in RCW 48.32A.025(1) against failure in the performance of contractual obligations, under life insurance, disability insurance, health benefit plans, and certificates of coverage, and annuity policies, plans, or contracts specified in RCW 48.32A.025(2), because of the impairment or insolvency of the member insurer that issued the policies, plans, or contracts.

(2) To provide this protection, an association of member insurers is created to pay benefits and to continue coverages as limited by this chapter, and members of the association are subject to assessment to provide funds to carry out the purpose of this chapter.