Oregon Approves Right to Repair: Consumers Gain Access to Electronics Parts

Oregon has joined the ranks of states like New York and California in approving legislation that empowers consumers with the right to repair their own electronic devices. The bill, known as SB 1596, received approval from Oregon lawmakers and now awaits action from Governor Tina Kotek.

If signed into law, the bill would compel companies like Apple to provide consumers with the necessary parts, tools, and technical information to repair their personal electronic devices. This move marks a significant victory for advocates of the Right to Repair movement, who have been pushing for similar legislation across roughly three dozen states over the past year.

Charlie Fisher, a proponent of the Right to Repair laws, emphasized the importance of eliminating manufacturer restrictions, stating that it will make it easier for Oregonians to maintain their personal electronics. The legislation covers a wide range of consumer devices, including appliances, laptops, and cell phones, reported Bloomberg Law.

Oregon’s Right to Repair Act passed the state House by a notable margin of 42 to 13, following its approval in the state Senate last month. The bill is now on Governor Kotek’s desk, who has five days to sign it into law.

Key provisions of the legislation include requiring manufacturers to provide open access to parts, tools, and repair information, which are often restricted to authorized service centers. Additionally, Oregon’s bill is the first to ban manufacturers from utilizing software to prevent technicians from fully installing spare parts, a practice known as “parts pairing.”

Nathan Proctor, the Senior Director of the PIRG Right to Repair Campaign, hailed Oregon’s legislation as the strongest yet, emphasizing its potential to reduce waste and save consumers money by keeping products in operation rather than discarding them prematurely.

With Oregon’s decision, the Right to Repair movement continues to gain momentum, sending a clear message to manufacturers about the growing demand for accessible repair options and consumer empowerment.

Source: NewsBloomberg Law