The Right to Appraisal bill, Senate Bill 458, has passed both chambers of the Texas Legislature and now awaits Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature. If signed into law, the bill will restore a critical consumer protection: allowing either party in an insurance dispute to invoke the appraisal clause when there’s disagreement over repair costs or procedures.
“This is a huge win for the collision repair industry,” said Jill Tuggle, executive director of the Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT). “Having protections in place is the only way to keep this game fair for the consumer. For years we’ve felt like David battling Goliath — but we did it. We have almost won. I won’t sleep until the governor’s signature is on it.”
Years in the Making
Jill Tuggle.
The bill’s passage caps nearly a decade of advocacy led by Tuggle, ABAT President Burl Richards, and licensed public insurance adjuster Robert McDorman, founder of Auto Claim Specialists. McDorman originally drafted the framework of the bill years ago and has pushed for its passage across multiple legislative sessions.
“In 2021, the legislature didn’t fully understand the claims process,” McDorman said. “But this time, lawmakers listened. They asked questions. They saw how this bill directly affects consumer safety and fair repair practices.”
To strengthen their efforts, ABAT and McDorman each hired lobbyists for the 89th session. “The work our lobbyists have done has been instrumental,” McDorman added. “Their persistence got us to this point.”
Appraisal as a Tool for Safe Repairs
If enacted, SB 458 would prevent insurers from removing or limiting the appraisal clause in Texas auto policies. When invoked, the clause allows disputes over repair costs to be resolved by independent experts, outside of court.
“This isn’t just about dollars,” McDorman said. “It’s about returning vehicles to their pre-loss condition following OEM repair procedures. Appraisal gives consumers and insurers a nonjudicial process to resolve legitimate differences in a fair and knowledgeable way.”
McDorman hopes the Texas Right to Appraisal bill sends a strong message beyond the state. “I hope other states will work with legislators to protect the right to appraisal,” he said. “Removing it is the nail in the coffin for safe roadways. The OEM is the authority on proper repair procedures — no one else should override that.”
Industry Unity Made It Happen
Robert McDorman.
Much of the bill’s momentum came from Collision Day at the Capitol on March 26, when nearly 30 repair professionals, public adjusters and consumer advocates gathered in Austin. ABAT members visited lawmakers, delivered educational materials, and helped shift legislative perception.
“The tone this session was different,” McDorman said. “We were heard. Lawmakers understood why this matters to every driver on Texas roads.”
Tuggle credits industry collaboration. “This was truly a team effort, from our board members and lobbyists to every shop owner who showed up and made their voice heard. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
A Critical Step Remains
With SB 458 now on the governor’s desk, the final outcome hinges on his signature. If signed, the legislation would represent a landmark win — not just for shops, but for every Texas driver seeking safe, proper and fully compensated repairs after a collision.
