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Rep. Ashford: Auto Insurance Bill Disproportionately Harms
Low-Income Families
Special to The Truth
State Rep. Michael Ashford (D-Toledo) last week decried the
passage of House Bill (HB) 279, legislation that prohibits
uninsured motorists from collecting noneconomic damages as
the result of an auto accident, saying it disproportionately
affects low-income and minority citizens.
“This bill wages economic warfare against families who are
struggling to make ends meet,” said Ashford. “We already
have penalties in place for those who drive uninsured. Ohio
should be focused on protecting everyone’s right to be
treated equally and fairly, not allowing individuals to
continue to cycle through the justice system because they
cannot afford basic necessities.”
Under HB 279, uninsured drivers who are victims of an
automobile collision would be prohibited from collecting
intangible damages, such as compensation for pain, suffering
and mental anguish. Rep. Ashford and critics of the bill
argue that the legislation unduly punishes struggling
Ohioans just because they are unable to afford automobile
insurance.
The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
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