HB4160 passes Illinois House with Maura Hirschauer's supporting vote, requiring auto insurance appraisals

Rep. Maura Hirschauer (D-49th) supported HB4160 by voting Yes during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois House. The bill was unanimously approved in the House with a 115-0 vote.

The official bill summary contains this phrase: "AUTO INS-RIGHT TO APPRAISAL."

The description below describes key provisions from the actual bill and includes clarifying interpretation of its content.

HB4160 amends the Illinois Insurance Code to require that all auto insurance policies covering first-party physical damage allow either the policyholder or insurer to request an independent appraisal if disagreements arise about loss estimates or settlement figures. The legislation establishes steps for choosing neutral appraisers and an umpire if appraisers do not agree, with binds on the involved parties based on the appraisal outcome. It details expense-sharing responsibilities, mandating the insurer cover fees if the award favors the applicant substantially. The right to appraisal is made available to certain third parties as well. Insurers that do not comply could face sanctions, including loss of licensure. The act also creates the Automotive Appraisal Standards Advisory Board—charged with quarterly meetings, shaping rules, and identifying best practices—and grants the Department of Insurance authority to implement and display board recommendations online. These changes take effect 90 days after the measure becomes law.

The official action for HB4160 read: 'Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 House Concurs.'

Hirschauer earned a Bachelor of Arts from Colby College.

A Democrat, Hirschauer began serving in the Illinois State House in 2021, representing the 49th District after succeeding Karina Villa.

Each Illinois bill goes through a legislative process that starts with introduction, then committee action, debate, and passage from both the House and Senate chambers, proceeding to the governor for signature or veto. Operating over a two-year term, the General Assembly reviews thousands of proposals per session, but only a portion ultimately becomes state law.