CA State Senator Leland Yee introduced SB 350 which would ban auto insurers from using any aftermarket parts that are not of like and kind quality to the parts being replaced.
(This is where a huge debate will be stirred.)
INTRODUCED BY Senator Yee
FEBRUARY 25, 2009 An act to amend Section 9875.1 of the Business and Professions Code, and to amend Section 27317 of the Vehicle Code, relating to motor vehicle insurance. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SB 350, as introduced, Yee. Motor vehicle insurance: automobile repairs: restraint systems. Existing law prohibits an insurer from requiring the use of nonoriginal equipment manufacturer aftermarket crash parts in the repair of an insured's motor vehicle unless the insured is advised in a written estimate before repairs are made that nonoriginal equipment manufacturer aftermarket crash parts will be used. This bill would, in addition to the advisement, prohibit the use of the nonoriginal equipment manufacturer aftermarket crash parts unless the parts are also at least of like kind and quality to the parts being replaced, as specified. Existing law makes it a misdemeanor for any person to install or reinstall for compensation any previously deployed air bag that is part of an inflatable restraint system if the person knew that the air bag had been previously deployed. This bill would, in addition, make it a misdemeanor for any person to install or reinstall for compensation any previously damaged air bag that is part of an inflatable restraint system if the person knew that the air bag had been previously damaged. This bill would also make it a misdemeanor for any person who has actual knowledge that the airbag portion of an inflatable restraint system has been previously deployed or damaged to cause another person to fail to fully restore, arm, and return the airbag to original operating condition, as specified. Because this bill would expand the definition of an existing crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. Vote: majority. Appropriation: no. Fiscal committee: yes. State-mandated local program: yes.