MA H1152

Replaces section 8G of Chapter 26 of the General Laws to overhaul motor vehicle damage appraiser licensing requirements, setting a $100 application fee, requiring applicants be 18+ with a high school diploma or equivalent work experience, and mandating passage of a written examination

Establishes bi-annual license renewal with $100 fee due by June 1st, with licenses expiring June 30th of the second year; lapsed licenses require re-registration with a $50 fee and potential re-examination

Requires appraisers to reinspect vehicles within 5 days when repair shops request supplementary allowances, with option for virtual inspections via photos, videos, or phone calls if both parties agree

Prohibits insurers and appraisers from steering customers to specific repair shops and requires written disclosure to consumers when insurer and repair shop cannot agree on price, informing them of their right to choose any repair facility

Creates 90-day temporary licenses for out-of-state appraisers with equivalent credentials for a $50 fee, and mandates permanent license revocation for those convicted of fraudulent damage reports