JEFFERSON CITY, MO --- Missouri State Sen. Wes Shoemyer has introduced a bill seeking to establish a state board of auto body repair and to require that auto body shops and damage appraisers be licensed by the state.

If passed, the bill (SB709) would require the governor to appoint members of the state board of auto body repair. The board would set licensing requirements for all state collision repair shops and appraisers.

Auto body repair facilities would have to submit an application to the board and pay a licensing fee of $250 annually. Additionally, they would need to have all required state and federal licenses, permits, and registrations; provide proof of insurance; provide proof of compliance with EPA and OSHA training requirements; provide proof that employees have completed current National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) training for the type of work being performed; possess or have access to proper equipment; possess an enclosed area for spray painting refinish operations; and possess an acceptable current reference source for estimating the cost of repairs.

To renew a license, a facility would have to prove completion of continuing education.

The board would consist of collision repair industry professionals as well as someone representing consumers.