Montana auto repair industry advocates push for Senate Bill 356 safety standards

In a pivotal meeting of the Montana State Legislature's House State Administration Committee on February 26, 2025, the spotlight shone on Senate Bill 356, a proposed law aimed at establishing clear standards for collision repair procedures. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as various stakeholders gathered to voice their support and concerns regarding the bill, which seeks to enhance consumer safety and repair quality in the auto body industry.

Paul Flores, owner of Rick's Auto Body in Missoula, was among the first proponents to speak. He emphasized the necessity of a law that mandates adherence to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) repair procedures, which he described as the "gold standard" for ensuring safe and proper vehicle repairs. Flores argued that the bill would not dictate the types of insurance policies available but would instead clarify the standards repair professionals must follow when executing claims. His testimony underscored a collective desire among collision repairers to uphold safety and quality in their services.

Ashley Kovick, another supporter and owner of Capital Collision Center in Helena, echoed these sentiments, urging committee members to vote in favor of the bill. She positioned herself as both a collision repairer and a consumer advocate, highlighting the bill's potential benefits for customers.

However, the meeting also featured significant opposition. Amy Grimales, representing the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, raised concerns about the bill's vagueness, particularly regarding repair instructions. She argued that the lack of specificity could lead to increased repair costs, ultimately impacting consumers through higher insurance premiums. Grimales pointed out that Montana already ranks high in repair costs, and the bill could exacerbate this issue.

Greg Van Horsten from State Farm Insurance Company added to the opposition, emphasizing the collaborative relationship between the collision repair and insurance industries. He cautioned that while safety is paramount, the bill's requirements could lead to inflated repair costs, which would be passed on to consumers through higher premiums.

The meeting also highlighted procedural issues, with several opponents unable to participate due to technical difficulties with the online testimony system. Catalina Joe Perrej from LKQ Corporation expressed frustration over the lack of public notification regarding the hearing, which limited participation from those opposed to the bill.

As the committee deliberated, the discussions reflected a broader tension between ensuring consumer safety and managing repair costs within the auto industry. The outcome of Senate Bill 356 remains uncertain, but the voices of both supporters and opponents have set the stage for a critical examination of how Montana will navigate the complexities of vehicle repair standards in the future.