Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro supports HB4160 mandating appraisal options in auto insurance claim disputes
Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro (R-48th) cast her vote in favor of HB4160, legislation that requires appraisal options in auto insurance claim disputes, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, the Illinois House reports; the bill received unanimous approval in the House with a 115-0 vote.
According to the official bill summary, the legislation is outlined as: "AUTO INS-RIGHT TO APPRAISAL."
The following summary is based on the bill text and may provide interpretive clarification of the measure's details.
In summary, this legislation amends the Illinois Insurance Code to require that all automobile insurance policies within the state offering first-party physical damage coverage must include an option for either party—the insured or the insurer—to initiate an appraisal process in the event of disputes regarding the value of losses or settlement proposals. The law details the procedures for appointing appraisers and an umpire when disagreements occur between appraisers, establishes the binding nature of resulting appraisal decisions, and clarifies cost-sharing requirements, including when insurers are obligated to pay fees if the decision significantly favors the policyholder. The appraisal process also extends to third-party claimants in similar cases. Insurers failing to comply may face sanctions, including loss of licensure. The legislation creates the Automotive Appraisal Standards Advisory Board to assist with regulations and best practices, which must meet quarterly. The Department of Insurance is authorized to enforce the act and publish advisory board guidance online. The law takes effect 90 days after enactment.
The recorded legislative step for HB4160 reads: 'Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 House Concurs.'
Sanalitro, a Republican, began serving in the Illinois State House in 2023, succeeding former state representative Terra Costa Howard as the representative for the 48th House District.
Legislation in Illinois advances through a multi-step process, beginning with introduction in either the House or Senate, then moving through committees, floor debates, and votes in both locations before possibly becoming law with the governor’s approval or veto. The General Assembly conducts business on a biennial timeline and, despite introducing thousands of bills each term, only a limited number ultimately become law.