This bill aims to regulate the actions of insurers regarding the use of nonoriginal equipment manufacturer (non-OEM) parts in the repair of motor vehicles. It defines key terms such as "consumer," "insurer," and "nonoriginal equipment manufacturer," and establishes that insurers cannot require the use of non-OEM parts that lack sufficient permanent identification or that do not meet quality standards comparable to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Additionally, insurers must inform consumers that they are not obligated to accept non-OEM parts and must obtain written consent before using them in repairs.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that insurers provide clear notice to consumers regarding the use of non-OEM parts in repair estimates, ensuring that any such parts are identified and meet quality standards. It also prohibits the use of aftermarket parts for vehicles manufactured within 36 months of the damage. Insurers may include a notice in their policies regarding the potential use of aftermarket parts for older vehicles, and violations of these regulations are classified as a Class I misdemeanor.