CAR THIEVES TO LOSE AUTO INJURY BENEFITS

The Saskatchewan government took the first step today toward removing access to all auto injury benefits for convicted car thieves.

Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance Tim McMillan introduced the necessary amendments to The Automobile Accident Insurance Act today in the Legislative Assembly.

"This change sends a message that auto theft is a serious crime," McMillan said. "Our government is being diligent by ensuring that premium dollars paid by law-abiding SGI customers are not being used to benefit convicted criminals."

Under the current legislation, convicted auto thieves injured in a motor vehicle collision can access all the same benefits through SGI's injury coverage as any other Saskatchewan resident. This includes benefits such as income replacement, rehabilitation and a lump-sum payment if they suffer a permanent impairment such as scarring or loss of a limb.

All Saskatchewan residents are covered by No Fault Coverage unless they sign a declaration opting for Tort Coverage. These changes will remove access to benefits regardless of which injury coverage the convicted person has at the time of the collision.

About SGI

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is the province's self-sustaining auto insurance fund. SGI operates 21 claims centres and five salvage centres across Saskatchewan with a head office in Regina. SGI also works with a network of more than 400 motor licence issuers across the province. Visit SGI at www.sgi.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Kelley Brinkworth
Saskatchewan Government Insurance
Regina
Phone: 306-751-1837
Email: kbrinkworth@sgi.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-6207