Minnesota, the most expensive state in the nation to get automobile glass repaired, is advancing legislation aimed at controlling costs.
The House recently passed HB 2570, which allows insurers to treat auto glass repairs in the same manner as other auto body repairs. The bill also repeals the current Department of Commerce price survey mechanism in favor of the more common fair and reasonable standard for a specific geographical area.
“Glass repairs in Minnesota continue to be significantly above regional average and we are urging the legislature to help consumers by addressing this issue,” Laura Kotelman, counsel for the National Association of Independent Insurers (NAII), said. “Minnesota consumers have been paying more for auto insurance due to the inflated cost of auto glass. By implementing these changes the legislature will be making an important step forward by curbing the price gauging tactics of a few repair shops.”
The debate over auto glass in Minnesota has been ongoing for many years.
In the past, insurers were required to pay “all reasonable” costs, which was often interpreted as meaning whatever the glass shop determined was reasonable. In 2000, the legislature attempted to address the issue by putting in place a price survey method of resolving pricing disputes.
“This new language will bring the process of determining auto glass repair costs more in line with other auto body repairs. This should help to control insurance costs and lead to lower premiums for consumers,” Kotelman added.
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