Progressive requests a hearing

So, ten days later, has Progressive filled out the form and sent in the registration fee? Not exactly. According to Heimerich, Progressive has requested a meeting with the BAR in order to explain why they are not an automotive repair dealer and should not have to register. This action has stopped the clock on compliance until it takes place - most likely within the next two weeks.

Heimerich went on to emphasize that licensing issues such as this are commonplace and, in the case of disagreement, resolution begins by opening a dialogue. The Progressive case is being handled in the normal timely manner, he pointed out.

After the meeting takes place, barring a convincing argument by Progressive, the BAR can once again seek voluntary compliance from Progressive or it can seek a court-ordered Cease and Desist order and shut the center down.

On-going soap opera

In July, a letter to the editor of Autobody News posed the question, "Is BAR selectively enforcing the law?" Todd Bishop, vice president of the Collision Repair Association of California, wrote "It seems clear to us that a license is required but why is the BAR looking the other way when it comes to Progressive?

"We believe that part of the answer may lie in the political landscape in Sacramento. The insurance companies have far more political clout than the small business owners who operate and own body shops. We believe that the relationships between insurance companies and elected and non-elected officials play an important role in the enforcement procedures followed by the BAR." Maybe somebody in Sacramento was listening.