The board may abate or defer, in whole or in part, the assessment of a member if, in the opinion of the board, payment of the assessment would endanger the ability of the member to fulfill its contractual obligations. In the event an assessment against a member is abated or deferred in whole or in part, the amount by which such assessment is abated or deferred may be assessed against the other members in a manner consistent with the basis for assessment set forth in subsections 1, 2, and 3 of section 376.973. The member receiving such abatement or deferment shall remain liable to the pool for the deficiency for four years.