Feb. 23, 2017—The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is encouraging industry professionals to oppose an Arkansas bill that would repeal the requirement for the use of aftermarket crash parts in the repair of a vehicle that is still under the manufacturer’s warranty without the vehicle owner’s written consent.

Specifically, Arkansas Senate Bill (SB) 291, introduced by State Sen. Greg Standridge, R-16, would remove Arkansas Code § 4-90-306, which reads:

“Whenever repairs are made involving replacement crash parts, as defined in this subchapter, and the vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty, only original equipment manufacturer replacement crash parts may be used by the repair facility unless the owner gives or has given written consent otherwise.”

SB 291 passed the Arkansas Senate with a 21-9 vote and is currently before the state House of Representatives for further consideration. ASA encourages all interested parties to visit its Taking the Hill website and select “Alerts” to contact their state representatives in opposition to this bill.