MT SB356

Prohibits insurance companies from disregarding or pressuring auto body repair shops to disregard original equipment manufacturer (OEM) repair instructions and safety inspection recommendations for collision-damaged vehicles

Adds new unfair trade practice restrictions to existing Montana law (Section 33-18-224, MCA) that already bars insurers from requiring claimants to use specific repair shops or coercing repair shop choices

Preserves insurers' ability to use alternative repair parts; the OEM instruction requirements do not restrict alternative parts usage

Effective immediately upon passage and approval, applying to motor vehicle insurance claims made on or after the effective date

Introduced by Senators B. Usher and M. Caferro in the 69th Montana Legislature (2025)