A new report from U.S. PIRG reveals today that Right to Repair laws have expanded significantly across America, with six states now protecting consumers’ ability to fix their own devices while highlighting remaining challenges in implementation.
Why it matters: The rapid adoption of Right to Repair laws fundamentally changes how Americans can maintain and repair their electronics, agricultural equipment, and other devices, potentially saving billions in repair costs while reducing electronic waste.
Legislative Progress: The movement has achieved unprecedented success in recent years, with states like Oregon and Colorado leading more comprehensive reforms. These new laws address longstanding consumer frustrations with manufacturers’ repair restrictions while setting standards for future legislation.
- Six states have passed eight total laws
- Oregon bans parts pairing restrictions
- Colorado’s law takes effect 2026
Implementation Challenges: While laws are expanding, manufacturers’ compliance varies significantly. A recent survey of professional repair technicians reveals mixed results in accessing necessary resources:
- 68% report improved parts access
- 64% note better repair documentation
- High parts prices remain an issue
Industry Response: Major technology companies like Microsoft, have begun adapting to the new regulatory landscape, though progress remains uneven:
- Sony releases new service manuals
- Google supports repair initiatives
- Some manufacturers still resist changes
Looking Forward: While significant progress has been made, advocates identify several priorities for 2025, including expanding state coverage, closing existing loopholes, and addressing federal copyright restrictions that limit repairs.
