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WR successfully helped advance SB 5721, a long-awaited Right to Appraisal proposal, on behalf of its collision repair members, many of whom are small, family-operated businesses with deep ties to their communities.
For years, collision shop owners have sought a more equitable process when insurance companies undervalue repair estimates. This year, they banded together to secure companion bills SB 5721/HB 1645 which will require all personal auto insurance policies to include a Right to Appraisal. This right allows consumers to seek a third-party assessment when there’s a dispute over repair costs and sets timelines to prevent prolonged settlement delays.
When the Senate-passed version of the bill stalled in the House without a scheduled hearing, WR stepped in to request action from the House Consumer Protection & Business Committee. Behind the scenes, WR also helped coordinate negotiations between stakeholders, most notably insurers and repair shops, to reach agreement on key provisions.
WR commends the Houses for their bipartisan support in advancing the bill. Thanks to the efforts of members on the House Consumer Protection and Business Committee, SB 5721 has moved forward and, as of April 8, is now placed on second reading in the House Rules Committee.
