Bill > HB929

This bill establishes the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Glass Law to prevent unfair trade practices in the insurance business related to motor vehicle glass repair and replacement. It defines key terms like "advanced driver assistance system" (electronic safety systems in vehicles that assist the driver) and "motor vehicle glass" (glass and associated parts for windshields, doors, or windows). The law prohibits motor vehicle glass repair shops from offering inducements to steer customers, charging excessive fees, submitting false information, advising customers to misrepresent claims, falsely signing documents, misrepresenting prices, claiming insurer approval without verification, or stating repairs are free without confirming coverage. It also prohibits damaging vehicles to increase repair scope, performing unnecessary work, misrepresenting relationships, or engaging in fraud. Crucially, before repairing or replacing glass, shops must provide a written estimate and, if an advanced driver assistance system is present, notify the insured in writing about the need for calibration, whether the shop can perform it to manufacturer specifications, and if the vehicle should be taken to a certified dealer or specialist if the shop cannot. Shops must also provide written notice of calibration success or failure. The bill also clarifies that insurers can recommend repair shops but cannot require customers to use a specific one, and it prohibits insured individuals from assigning their insurance rights to others for glass repair claims.