Missouri associations AASP of Missouri, ASA MOKAN and SCRS MOKAN hosted
a Day at the Capitol in Jefferson City, Mo., for the collision repair
industry. It was the first time that the industry has descended on the
capitol to express its concerns on issues that affect the consumer and
the independent business community.

Nearly 70 industry members visited with legislators to express their
support for Senate Bill 775, a deceptive referral/steering bill. The
group also expressed support for related S.B. 868 and S.B. 986.

S.B. 868 would ensure the use of the manuals or automated estimating
systems in their entirety and with no alteration without prior
agreement between parties. S.B. 986 would establish certain parameters
that all auto physical damage appraisers would need to follow in
preparing an estimate/appraisal on a damaged vehicle.

Industry members met with the sponsor of the three bills, Sen. Wes
Shoemyer. After a short briefing, participants broke into small groups
to meet with their respective legislators or their staff.

During the Day at the Capitol, Shoemyer was successful in arranging a
hearing for S.B. 775 on April 22. Industry members made initial plans
to attend the hearing in support of the bill. Before the Day at the
Capitol, the three bills had been stalled, with little hope of moving
forward.

For the summary and full text of S.B. 775, click HERE.