Bill > H4049

This bill amends South Carolina law to protect consumers' rights when dealing with automobile safety glass repairs by prohibiting insurance companies and claims adjusters from forcing insureds to use specific repair facilities. The bill requires that when an insurance company or claims representative communicates with an insured about safety glass repair, they must explicitly tell the customer they have the right to choose a licensed glass shop of their preference. Insurance companies and claims administrators are banned from directing customers to glass shops owned by themselves or their parent companies without providing alternative options. The legislation defines "automobile safety glass" as glass for which no deductible can be applied during repair or replacement. Violations of these provisions are considered unfair trade practices and can be subject to penalties under the South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act. The key goal is to prevent insurance companies from unfairly steering customers to specific repair facilities and to ensure consumers have transparency and choice in selecting where to have their vehicle's safety glass repaired or replaced.

Business and Industry

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4049&session=126&summary=B