Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a benefits consortium or sponsoring association, by virtue of its sponsorship of a benefits consortium or any health benefit plan, shall not be subject to the following: (i) the provisions of Chapter 17 (§ 38.2-1700 et seq.) of Title 38.2 or any regulations adopted thereunder or (ii) any annual license tax levied pursuant to § 58.1-2501.