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.