A measure opposed by the insurance industry, that would make itillegal for carriers to gives customers auto repair shop namesafter an accident, was stalled in committee this week.

Assembly Bill 353 stalled after a public hearing by the Assemblyinsurance committee on Wednesday was held without a vote.Legislators said there might be another hearing in the future.

At Wednesday's session a variety of insurers opposing themeasure–including American Family, Progressive, State Farm andKeystone Automotive–spoke against it, while its advocates, inaddition to its sponsor, included the Wactal Wisconsin AutomotiveCollisions Technicians Association, a number of small body shops,and various auto and truck dealer association.

In order for the measure to move forward in the AssemblyInsurance Committee, Chairman Rep. Frank Lasee, R-Green Bay, mustschedule the bill for an executive committee meeting, which he hasnot done, said Joyce Kiel, a senior staff attorney with thelegislature.

The legislation would make it illegal for an insurance companyrepresentative to provide information about repair options, such aswarranties; eliminate an insurer's ability to negotiate discountrates with repair facilities; and delay the claims process.

The proposed legislation would amend the current law thatalready prohibits insurers from providing information concerning“repair or replacement of motor vehicle glass,” according to thebill.

The current Wisconsin law already prohibits insurers fromrequiring the use of a specific repair facility for glassreplacement as a condition of coverage.

Ms. Kiel said the bill's language would expand the law to coverother collision repairs.

But some insurance interests, such as AIA, are against suchlegislation.

“The proposed legislation puts a muzzle on the simple process ofan insurer recommending a reputable auto body repair facility totheir own customer,” said AIA's assistant vice president, Midwestregion, John Birkinbine.

“The legislation being promoted under the veil of 'consumerrights' actually takes away the customer's right to choose a higherlevel of service and a streamlined claims process,” he added.