(a) If the rate established for any given year results in the collection of assessments which exceed the amounts described herein, the assessment rate for the next calendar year shall be reduced accordingly. However, the assessment rate for each calendar year shall ensure that the clearing account described in section 318.7 of this Part maintains a balance of at least 10 percent of the annual projected assessments.

(b) If it appears that the rate established for any given year will not produce assessment revenue sufficient to meet all estimated annual expenses as described herein, the board may make adjustments to the existing published rate prior to the beginning of the next calendar year. Any such mid-year rate adjustments must be published at least 45 days prior to becoming effective and will apply to policies with effective dates between the effective date of the adjusted rate through December 31st of that calendar year or until the board issues a new rate, whichever is later.