H.F. No. 2234 Summary

• Amends Minnesota Statutes section 72A.201 to add definition of "satisfactory repair" as all repair operations, parts, paint, and materials necessary to restore a vehicle to pre-loss condition, including completion of repairs consistent with original equipment manufacturer specifications.

• Requires insurers to offer partial loss claimants either assumption of all repair costs including towing for satisfactory repair, or a cash settlement sufficient to cover satisfactory repair including obvious and hidden damage.

• Prohibits insurers from conditioning claim payment on use of repair procedures or specifications that conflict with original equipment manufacturer recommendations, though insurer requirements for parts selection supersede any OEM parts recommendations.

• Establishes unfair settlement practices for automobile claims including failure to provide adequate inspection timelines (5 business days for undrivable vehicles, 15 days otherwise) and requirements to notify insureds of loss-of-use coverage availability.

• Requires insurers to provide specific consumer advisories regarding the right to choose repair shops, glass vendors, and rental vehicle companies, and prohibits intimidation or coercion to use particular vendors.