Fair Repair Act

Fair Repair Act – Plain English Summary

The Fair Repair Act is a federal bill that would give consumers and independent repair shops the legal right to fix electronic devices and other products using their own tools, parts, and methods — without being forced to go through the original manufacturer. Right now, many companies restrict access to the software, technical manuals, spare parts, and diagnostic tools needed to repair their products. This bill would require manufacturers to make those resources available to the general public and third-party repair businesses, not just their own authorized service centers.

The bill affects a wide range of people. Everyday consumers who own smartphones, laptops, farm equipment, appliances, or other tech-enabled products could benefit by having more options for where and how they get things repaired — potentially at lower cost. Independent repair shops and small businesses would gain access to the same information and parts that manufacturer-owned service centers currently use. Manufacturers and their authorized repair networks, on the other hand, would face new requirements to share tools and information they have traditionally kept proprietary.

Supporters of similar legislation argue it could save consumers money and reduce electronic waste by extending the life of products. Opponents have raised concerns about safety, intellectual property, and product security. The bill has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, meaning it is still in early stages and has not yet been voted on. Many states have considered or passed their own right-to-repair laws, and this bill would establish a national standard.