This is your right to repair.
We stand on the shoulders of movements that have been fighting for working people for generations. That’s why we are proud to continue the fight to protect repair rights and reclaim ownership in the 21st century.
We need your help to expand access and affordability of repair. By getting involved, you can contribute to our efforts and increase the chances of successful support and action from manufacturers.
Step 1: Find Your State
Right to Repair will most likely come down to what happens at the state legislature level, and your voice is an important part of that. We need you to make your voice heard and get involved no matter where you live.
Use the map below to select your state and contact your representatives. It only takes a few seconds, and you can send a powerful message.
Tip: Hover your cursor over a state to see more details in a tooltip. Click the state to freeze the tooltip and click again to unfreeze.
Step 2: Get Involved
To win this battle, we need collective action. Volunteer your time to help pass “Fair Repair” legislation and protect consumer rights. Subscribe to stay updated on how you can get involved.
An email, you ask? Yes, we keep it old school but vital. We unite businesses and consumers from various sectors to push for repair rights. Our monthly updates provide the crucial insights you need to act locally. We don’t mince words, we tell you exactly what you need to know.
Step 3: Build The Coalition
Recruit a couple friends to help spread the word about Right to Repair legislation. The more people you can get to call their legislators, write a letter, or share the campaign— the better chance we’ll have of getting bills passed. You can also help raise awareness using the hashtag #RightToRepair on social media.
Right to Repair FAQ
Why is the Right to Repair important?
Modern equipment often includes proprietary technology parts. Manufacturers restrict access to repair services, claiming potential violations of their rights. In truth, this is a marketing strategy, as the law doesn't grant manufacturers control over property post-sale. Such limitations affect equipment trade in the used market. For a comprehensive understanding of this issue, we recommend "The End of Ownership" by Law Professor Aaron Perzonowski.
Why is state-level legislation necessary?
Most repair restrictions stem from contracts such as End User License Agreements (EULAs), which limit equipment usage. Since contracts fall under General Business Law, state-level legislation is critical to address these limitations.
What about Right to Repair legislation in other countries?
While our primary focus is the United States, we support global efforts to pass "Fair Repair" legislation. Repair advocates are working to introduce laws in various countries and regions. If you're interested in contributing to these efforts or have specific inquiries, please contact us at [email protected].
Does copyright law make repair illegal?
No. The U.S. Copyright Office (USCO) clarified in 2016 that copyright law does not prohibit repair, customization, security research, or resale. They acknowledged that manufacturers unfairly remove legal rights via deceptive contracts, a situation addressable through state law.
What changes does the proposed legislation bring?
The bill mandates Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to provide consumers and independent repair businesses with equal access to repair documentation, tools, diagnostics, service parts, and firmware.
How does this legislation impact consumer choice?
"Fair Repair" or "Right to Repair" legislation secures the consumer’s right to choose their equipment's repair terms, encouraging a competitive local repair and resale market.
What effect will it have on retailers?
The Right to Repair requirements target manufacturers, not distributors, retailers, or franchisees. Manufacturers will determine the best method for providing parts and information.
Does this legislation affect product warranties?
Right to Repair does not impact warranties. Manufacturers will continue offering warranty services. Generally, consumers resort to independent repair services after the original warranty period ends.
Does this increase manufacturers' potential liability?
No. Existing state laws limit manufacturers' liability disclaimers. Any harmful design or manufacturing defects remain the manufacturer's responsibility, regardless of equipment usage or repair.
Will it be difficult for manufacturers to provide repair information?
No. Manufacturers already possess the required information under Right to Repair for their authorized repair services. No new requirements are being introduced.
How does Fair Repair contribute to cybersecurity?
Firmware settings crucial for repair also enhance device security. The U.S. Copyright Office supports users' rights to modify their firmware for security improvements and research.
Does this legislation risk manufacturers' intellectual property?
No. The law safeguards copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. Intellectual property remains unaltered during repair. The legislation aligns with federal IP law and does not facilitate IP infringement.
Is this similar to Auto Right to Repair?
Yes. The Right to Repair concept aligns with current laws for auto repairs in Massachusetts and the National Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) supporting independent auto repair. The MOU model has proven beneficial for consumers without negatively impacting manufacturers.
Have you considered litigation?
Seeking repair rights restoration through courts is impractical and expensive. Plus, litigation targets one manufacturer at a time instead of addressing the issue as a policy matter. Hence, we focus on legislative solutions.