All coverage issued through the assignment system, upon application and payment of premium, shall become effective on the date of a qualifying event. In no case shall a participating health insurer or managed care organization be required to make such coverage effective prior to January 1, 1998.
Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 120-2-81-.11
O.C.G.A. Secs. 33-2-9, 33-29A-1, et seq.