The Massachusetts Auto Body Labor Rate Bill, H.B. 1085, is one
signature away from approval. Governor Deval Patrick has until July 13
to sign the bill, which is attached to the state’s Budget Conference
Report.
The bill – which was introduced in January of 2007 by the Massachusetts
chapter of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP MA/RI)
and the Central Massachusetts Auto Rebuilders Association (CMARA) and
sponsored by State Rep. Robert Spellane (D-Worcester) – calls for a
special commission that would study the way labor rates are set and
investigate the benefits and costs of developing a rate-setting system,
including a shop rating system, average national rates and using a
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLR) multiplier based on Massachusetts
labor wages. The commission would also look into the number of existing
shops in the state and the number that have closed since 2000. This
bill also requires the commission to hold at least two public hearings
and file a report that includes legislative or regulatory
recommendations by Dec. 31.
If Gov. Patrick approves the bill, the commission will consist of three
representatives from the collision industry – two will be appointed by
AASP MA/RI and one from MSADA – three insurance industry
representatives and five state legislators. The state secretary of
consumer affairs and business regulation would select the commission’s
chairperson.
For more information, visit www.passthelaborratebill.org. Click HERE to view our previous story on the bill.
