Committee approves consumer‑protection bill expanding contractor safeguards after storms

Representative Wade Williams introduced House Bill 233 to the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee as a consumer protection measure aimed at protecting Kentuckians after severe weather events.

“House Bill 233 is a consumer protection bill that protects Kentuckians during these difficult times,” Williams said. He described four primary provisions: expanding an existing consumer protection statute beyond roofers to include contractors and tree removal companies that prepare or repair property for property and casualty insurance claims; allowing a five‑day cancellation period between a contract and the insured after notice from an insurer that not all services will be covered; prohibiting a mechanic’s lien on the consumer following a financial dispute tied to an insurance claim while still allowing liens for work outside the scope of the claim; and adding a $5,000 civil penalty for each violation, with enforcement by the Attorney General’s Office.

Dustin Miller, a retained legislative agent for State Farm, was present for the bill presentation. Senator Girdler asked whether the measure was similar to other bills under consideration; committee testimony distinguished this bill as consumer‑protection statute language previously limited to roofers but now expanded to a broader group of contractors.

Senator Rawlings, explaining his yes vote, said predatory practices that target disaster‑affected residents were “despicable and utterly morally reprehensible,” and thanked Representative Williams for bringing the bill. The committee recorded the bill as passing with a favorable expression and indicated it will move to the floor.

The transcript records the bill’s sponsor explaining the scope and enforcement (Attorney General’s Office) and the committee’s favorable pass; no committee amendments were recorded in the transcript.