Right to Repair Movement Wins Legislative Victories
Laws empower consumers to fix their own devices and equipment.
Right-to-repair legislation is passing as consumers demand ability to fix products they own. Laws require manufacturers to provide parts, tools, and documentation enabling independent repairs.
The movement challenges planned obsolescence and proprietary repair monopolies. Manufacturers have deliberately made products difficult to repair, forcing replacement purchases.
Environmental benefits are substantial. Repairable products last longer, reducing electronic waste and resource extraction for new devices.
Economic impacts include saving consumers money and creating independent repair jobs. Small businesses and tinkerers can fix devices without manufacturer authorization.
Industry opposition argues repairs compromise safety and intellectual property. However, experience in states with repair laws shows these concerns are largely unfounded.
