In a global first, the New York state legislature enacted a law requiring digital electronics manufacturers to make parts, tools, information, and software accessible to customers and independent repair businesses.
The “Fair Repair Act” was enacted in response to government demand to safeguard customers’ rights to repair and refurbish bought products.Â
This is great news for independent repair shops since it means they will now be allowed to compete with manufacturers, opposing the repair market concentration caused by manufacturers limiting access to components and tools.Â
According to a recent study, 59% of independent repair firms warned they could have to shut their doors if ‘Right to Repair’ legislation is not passed.
Self-help organizations like iFixit applauded the decision, calling it “one great stride for repairkind.”
“Those individuals who choose to do their own repairs are able to do so. And even if the notion of opening your laptop or phone makes you nervous, your repair experience should improve “iFixit announced the news in a blog post late Friday.
Previously, manufacturers could force customers to purchase at manufacturer-authorized stores, but now they must compete.
“The passage of this historic law will be to the advantage of each and every customer in the state of New York. We’ll all be able to mend the things we enjoy, stop being compelled to purchase new items we don’t want, and allow the secondary market to supply high-quality reuse choices.”, Gay Gordon-Byrne, Executive Director of the Repair Association, said.Â
This law covers the majority of electrical equipment, however, there are several significant exceptions.
It does not cover household appliances, medical devices, public safety communications equipment like police radios, agricultural equipment, or off-road equipment. The management of motor vehicles is currently managed by a nationwide Right to Repair agreement between manufacturers and the aftermarket.
“The Digital Fair Repair Act prioritizes customers, levels the playing field for independent repair businesses, and decreases our e-waste imprint on the environment,” stated Patricia Fahy, a New York Assembly member.
