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The Right to Repair movement has gained widespread support in recent years, thanks in part to the efforts of governments around the globe to reduce e-waste. Now, California has passed its right-to-repair act called Senate Bill 244, which would finally restore users’ ability to take their electronic devices to third-party technicians for repairs.
Currently awaiting a concurrence vote in the Senate before ultimately reaching California Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk, the bill has garnered support from several tech companies, which have traditionally been cautious about allowing users to repair their devices. At its core, Senate Bill 244 aims to ensure that repair materials, including components, tools, documentation, and software, remain readily accessible to consumers for extended periods. Additionally, the legislation mandates a three-year availability period for repair products priced between $50 and $99.99, while products exceeding $100 must be available for seven years.
“The era of manufacturers’ repair monopolies is ending, as well it should be. Accessible, affordable, widely available repair benefits everyone,” said Kyle Wiens, iFixit CEO.
A step in the right direction
Although California isn’t the only state to pass such regulation, its status as the most populous state in the US and the tech hub of the world makes this legislation even more important. Additionally, the fact that Apple endorsed the bill in a letter addressed to Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman, the bill’s author, represents a significant step forward in reducing e-waste and tackling climate change.
“While manufacturers have spent many years frustrating repair technicians and opposing Right to Repair legislation, thankfully, many, notably Apple, have come around,” said Nathan Proctor, senior director of the Public Interest Research Group’s right-to-repair campaign.
However, it is important to note that the earliest possible commencement of this right-to-repair law would be in 2024, providing a window for potential amendments along the way, and these provisions apply to electronics and appliances manufactured and sold after July 1st, 2021. Although all three right-to-repair bills from California, New York, and Minnesota are set to be implemented in 2024, New York will lead the way with its rollout scheduled for January, followed by Minnesota and California in July.
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