The California bill incorporating virtually all of NCOIL’s language is back and alive. SB 988, also known as the California Motor Vehicle Glass Act, was introduced in the State Senate in February.
In response, the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) has worked feverishly behind the scenes to educate legislators on the inequities and deficiencies in the current bill, which now moves to the State Assembly.
AGSC submitted testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee and worked behind the scenes on several additional efforts to remove the anti-competitive provisions from the bill.
AGSC is still working to rebuff the California Motor Vehicle Glass Act.“We were told our efforts had been successful, and that the bill was headed toward ‘suspension,’ a committee status from which few, if any, bills ever rise,” said Jacques Navant, AGSC president. “We were also told, off the record, to bring no attention to it and it would basically die. So that’s what we did.”
“Unfortunately, the spotlight stayed on the bill, and now it has had its third reading, which means it is likely to pass the Senate,” he added.
The Council has since led an educational blitz, contacting every member of the California legislature, as well as key local media outlets. It has also presented its viewpoint to Governor Gavin Newsom’s office.
“AGSC is the only auto glass organization that systematically tracks state and federal legislation professionally, employs government affairs professionals and has a counsel who is one of the foremost authorities on automotive regulation in the country,” said AGSC Public Affairs Committee chair Josh Schwermer. “AGSC has decided to focus more resources and effort on getting it done, rather than talking about it. Most legislation is crafted long before it hits the floor. We will continue to work with AGSC members and legislators as the bill moves to the full California Assembly for consideration.”
“Our industry has been trapped in a quagmire since the early 2000s,” said Navant. “A severe lack of focused, modern direction has prevented meaningful progress.”
“With the possibility of NCOIL legislation advancing across all 50 states, the time to act is now. We must begin operating with a positive, forward-thinking mindset before our industry starts resembling a fast-food business model instead of a network of educated professionals responsible for critical safety systems and consumer protection every single day,” he continued.
“This industry deserves professionalism, unity, and leadership that reflects the seriousness of the work we perform,” he added. “Stay tuned for more details from the AGSC in the coming months.”
AGSC members in California are urged to get involved. We need your help and support now. Time is of the essence. If you can help, please reach out to the AGSC offices (send an email to mhood@agsc.org) to be included in future communication and efforts.