In this chapter:
(1) “Agent” includes:
(A) a surplus lines agent, as defined by § 981.002;
(B) a person licensed as a surplus lines agent by another state; and
(C) any other person who performs the acts of an agent, whether through an oral, written, electronic, or other form of communication, by soliciting, negotiating, procuring, or collecting a premium on an insurance contract.
(2) “Insurer” has the meaning assigned by § 101.002 and includes:
(A) an insurer that does not hold a certificate of authority in this state;
(B) an eligible surplus lines insurer; and
(C) an insurer that holds a certificate of authority in this state but performs acts outside the scope of its authority under the certificate.
(3) “Premium” includes:
(A) any consideration for insurance, including:
(i) a premium;
(ii) a membership fee;
(iii) an assessment; and
(iv) dues; or
(B) any other meaning of the term adopted in a cooperative agreement.
(4) “Processing entity” means a processing center or clearinghouse established under a cooperative agreement.
(5) “Stamping office” means the Surplus Lines Stamping Office of Texas or similar stamping offices in other states.