The Automotive Service Association (ASA), which has been working with independent repairers and their state affiliate associations that have taken an active role in addressing the insurer parts procurement mandates, anticipates that 2014 will see more legislative activity on parts procurement and other similar insurer mandates.
In addition, ASA contacted state attorneys general and insurance regulators in the fall of 2013 asking that they review these programs to determine if they violate their state laws. ASA has had discussions with a number of these states that have submitted inquiries for additional supporting information.Subsequent to ASA sending letters to each state, ASA notes State Farm sent states a letter arguing the legitimacy of such mandates. To view an example of these letters, visit www.TakingTheHill.com.
ASA has not deviated from its initial approach to the State Farm PartsTrader issue. Dan Risley, ASA executive director, said, “Our goal was to resolve this issue without government oversight, interference or legislation. As such, we have persisted in our efforts to work with State Farm to change the current PartsTrader mandate policy. This has included multiple meetings and other discussions that continued throughout 2013. ASA believes that there are potential solutions provided State Farm is willing to work toward an amicable resolution that benefits State Farm, collision repairers and the consumer.”
To view more on the State Farm PartsTrader issue and ASA’s actions, visit the Automotive Service Association’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.
For additional information about ASA, including past news releases, go to www.ASAshop.org, or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.
