Blair-Sherlock supports HB4160 requiring appraisals in auto insurance conflict cases

Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock (D-46th) cast a Yes vote for HB4160 in the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, as reported by the Illinois House. The measure, addressing mandatory appraisals in automobile insurance disputes, cleared the House with a 115-0 vote.

The official bill summary states, "AUTO INS-RIGHT TO APPRAISAL."

The breakdown below clarifies the bill's text and may include interpretations for a more accessible overview of its content.

Essentially, this legislation modifies the Illinois Insurance Code by requiring all automobile insurance policies with first-party physical damage coverage to provide an option for either party to initiate the appraisal process if disagreement arises regarding the value of a loss or settlement amount. Procedures for appraiser selection, handling disagreements with an umpire, the binding nature of appraisal outcomes, and fee allocation are described, including insurer payment of fees when an award is especially favorable to a claimant. The process also applies to certain third-party disputes. Insurers who do not comply may face penalties, potentially including license revocation. The bill establishes the Automotive Appraisal Standards Advisory Board for regulatory advice and best practices, with required quarterly meetings. The Department of Insurance is authorized to enforce these measures and to publish advisory board recommendations online. The law takes effect 90 days after enactment.

For HB4160, the documented action was 'Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 House Concurs.'

Blair-Sherlock earned an AA from College of DuPage in 1985, a BS from Northern Illinois University in 1987, and a JD from John Marshall Law School in 1993.

The Democrat began representing Illinois' 46th House District in 2023, succeeding Deborah Conroy.

Legislation in Illinois undergoes a multistep process that starts with its introduction in either chamber, then committee consideration, floor debate, and votes in both the House and Senate. Bills that pass both chambers proceed to the governor for approval or veto. The General Assembly operates on a two-year cycle, with thousands of proposals introduced each session, though only a small proportion become law.