Sen. Linda Holmes supports SB3258 mandating like-for-like rental coverage in Illinois auto insurance

During the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, Sen. Linda Holmes (D-42nd) cast a Yes vote on SB3258, a measure obligating auto insurance policies to include comparable rental vehicle coverage. The Illinois Senate reported the measure passed unanimously, with a 58-0 vote.

The official bill text summarizes SB3258 as: "INS-RENTAL VEHICLE COVERAGE."

What follows is our summary and interpretation based on a review of the bill’s specific language.

SB3258 updates the Illinois Insurance Code by requiring that car insurance offering rental reimbursement or loss-of-use coverage supplies a rental vehicle comparable to the insured vehicle while the original is out of use. Under the bill, a “comparable vehicle” refers to one similar in size, model, interior, and utility class. Meanwhile, “loss of use” is defined as the time reasonably needed for repairs or replacement. Coverage applies when the insured selects it and the loss of use results from maintenance or any at-fault incident.

The bill’s progress included 'House Committee Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs' as the recorded action.

Holmes holds a bachelor's degree from National College of Education, earned in 1984.

The senator, a Democrat, has served the 42nd District since her 2007 election, succeeding Phyllis Petka in the Illinois State Senate.

Lawmaking in Illinois involves a multi-stage process, starting from bill introduction, committee action, debate, and chamber votes, before any legislation advances to the governor for potential signing or veto. The General Assembly operates on a biennial basis, initiating thousands of proposals each session, but only a small proportion are enacted into law.