The bill amends Section 27-10.2-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 27-10.2 entitled "Motor Vehicle Replacement Parts" to regulate the use of aftermarket parts in motor vehicle repairs. It requires insurance companies to obtain written consent from the vehicle owner before specifying the use of aftermarket parts in the adjustment of a claim for motor vehicle physical damage. Additionally, auto body repair shops in Rhode Island are prohibited from using non-original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts without the vehicle owner's express written consent. The bill also stipulates that for automobiles less than 48 months beyond the date of manufacture, both the insurer and the auto body repair shop must provide written notice to the vehicle owner regarding the use of OEM or non-OEM parts in the repair.

The bill introduces new provisions regarding the use of OEM parts for vehicles that are between 48 and 72 months from the date of manufacture. It prohibits insurance companies from refusing to use OEM parts during negotiations with repairers for such vehicles, provided there is written consent from the vehicle owner to install OEM parts. Furthermore, the bill mandates that repair procedures comply with the recommendations of the original equipment manufacturer when OEM parts are used. The bill does not apply to the repair or replacement of motor vehicle glass by licensed motor vehicle glass repair shops. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
2440  as amended: 27-10.2-2
2440: 27-10.2-2