The bill amends Chapter 27-10.2 of the General Laws, specifically addressing the use of aftermarket parts in motor vehicle repairs. It stipulates that insurance companies must notify the vehicle owner in writing if they intend to specify the use of aftermarket parts in a claim adjustment. Additionally, auto body repair shops in Rhode Island are prohibited from using non-original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts without the express written consent of the vehicle owner. The bill also prohibits insurance companies from requiring the use of aftermarket parts unless the repairer has written consent from the vehicle owner for vehicles that are less than 48 months beyond the date of manufacture.

The bill introduces new provisions, marked by insertions, which state that insurance companies cannot refuse the use of OEM parts in negotiations with repairers for vehicles that are between 48 and 72 months from the date of manufacture, provided there is written consent from the vehicle owner to install OEM parts. The bill also requires that both insurers and auto body repair shops provide written notice to the vehicle owner regarding the use of OEM or non-OEM parts in repairs for vehicles less than 48 months beyond the date of manufacture. It further mandates that repair procedures comply with the original equipment manufacturer's recommendations when OEM parts are used. The bill does not apply to motor vehicle glass repairs performed by licensed shops. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
7264  SUB A: 27-10.2-2
7264: 27-10.2-2