PCI Disappointed With R.I. Auto Body Repair Law

PROVIDENCE, R.I., July 18 -- The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America issued the following news release:

The following statement regarding Rhode Island auto body repair legislation (HB 5263/SB 465) becoming law can be attributed to Frank O'Brien, Vice President State Government Relations for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI).

"We are profoundly disappointed that HB 5263/SB 465, which is part of the agenda of a few body shops, will become law at the expense of hard working Rhode Island consumers. Rhode Islanders already pay among the highest amounts for auto body repairs in the nation and this legislation supported by the Auto Body Association of Rhode Island (ABARI) could drive costs even higher.

"By forcing vehicles that are badly damaged to be repaired rather than totaled, this law is designed to increase body shop revenues. But in the end it is the Rhode Island consumer who will pick up the tab. Over the years special interest groups such as ABARI have wielded significant influence in Providence and they have reaped the benefit of bill after bill being passed with the end result being repair costs growing at more than twice the national average and increased hassle and inconvenience for consumers. Unless someone provides a check and balance on body shop costs, this trend is likely to continue.

"We believe consumers, insurers and body shops should have the same goals - high quality repairs at reasonable costs. Although this new law falls short of the mark, the insurance industry remains committed to protecting the interests of consumers and putting safety first."

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