Fair Repair Act
Fair Repair Act Would Ban Device Makers From Blocking Third-Party Repairs, Parts
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- Device makers would have to sell parts, tools, and repair info to you and independent repair shops on fair terms, including updates.
- Manufacturers could not use software “parts pairing” tricks to block third-party parts, reduce performance after a repair, or show deceptive warnings.
- The Federal Trade Commission could treat violations like unfair business practices, and state attorneys general could also sue to stop violations and get money back for residents.
- The bill does not apply to cars, medical devices, off-road vehicles (like boats and motorcycles), or emergency communications equipment used by first responders.
- If you or an independent shop repairs a device and something goes wrong, the manufacturer generally would not be responsible for that damage or related data losses.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
While this bill exempts motor vehicles and off-road vehicles, farmers who rely on digital electronic equipment like GPS systems, irrigation controllers, grain monitors, and other tech tools embedded in their operations could benefit from easier access to repair parts and documentation. However, most heavy farm equipment (tractors, combines) likely falls under the off-road vehicle exemption, limiting the bill's reach for this group.
Broader Impacts
Milestones
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
3 articlesGluesenkamp Perez Introduces Legislation to Give Americans the Right to Repair Their Own Electronics
Bipartisan lawmakers introduced the Fair Repair Act, aiming to lower costs for consumers by requiring manufacturers to provide diagnostic information, parts, and tools on fair terms. The bill specifically targets software locks and 'parts pairing' that prevent independent repairs.
Digital Fair Repair Act to offer consumers, independent shops right to repair electronics
Minnesota's Digital Fair Repair Act requires manufacturers to make tools, parts, and documentation available to independent repair providers and owners on fair terms. The law aims to help 'mom and pop' shops compete and reduce electronic waste by extending device lifespans.
National Right-to-Repair Bill Filed in Congress
Rep. Joseph Morelle filed the Fair Repair Act to require manufacturers to provide device owners and independent repair stores access to tools and parts. The bill empowers the FTC to penalize violators and authorizes state attorneys general to enforce its provisions.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Fair Repair Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(1)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.