Oregon is set to become the latest state to pass a Right to Repair law. The Oregon House of Representatives passed the Right to Repair Act (SB 1596) on March 4, two weeks after it advanced from the Senate. It now heads to Governor Tina Kotek's desk, who has five days to sign it.
California, Minnesota and New York have similar legislation, but Nathan Proctor, the Public Interest Research Group's Right to Repair Campaign senior director, calls Oregon's legislation "the best bill yet." (It's worth noting that Colorado also has its own Right to Repair legislation that has a different remit around agricultural equipment rather than around consumer electronics.)
If made into law, Oregon's Right To Repair Act would be the first to ban "parts pairing," a practice that prevents individuals from swapping out a piece for another, theoretically equivalent one. For example, a person might replace their iPhone battery with an identical one from the same model, but they'll likely receive an error message that it either can't be verified or used. The system forces people to buy the part directly from the manufacturer and can only activate it with their consent — otherwise users will have to buy an entirely new device altogether. Instead, under the new bill, manufacturers would be required to:
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Prevent or inhibit an independent repair provider or an owner from installing or enabling the function of an otherwise functional replacement part or a component of consumer electronic equipment, including a replacement part or a component that the original equipment manufacturer has not approved.
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Reduce the functionality or performance of consumer electronic equipment.
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Cause consumer electronic equipment to display misleading alerts or warnings, which the owner cannot immediately dismiss, about unidentified parts.
Along with restricting parts pairing, the act dictates that manufacturers must make compatible parts available to device owners through the company or an authorized service provider for the most favorable price and without any "substantial" conditions.
The parts pairing ban applies to any devices first built or sold in Oregon starting in 2025. However, the law backdates general coverage of electronics to 2015, except for cell phones. Oregon's mobile devices purchased starting July 2021 count — a stipulation in line with California's and Minnesota's Right to Repair bills.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/oregons-new-right-to-repair-bill-targets-anti-repair-practices-143001457.html?src=rss
CyberVanguard
It’s great to see Oregon taking a stand for the Right to Repair Act! As a tech-savvy modder, I can imagine how important it is to have the freedom to tinker with our devices and make them truly our own. This legislation could have a big impact on the gaming community as well, especially when it comes to customizing and modifying games. Can’t wait to see how this unfolds and how it might influence the gaming experience moving forward. CyberVanguard would definitely approve!
MysticSage
@CyberVanguard, your enthusiasm for Oregon’s Right to Repair Act is truly commendable. This legislation will empower individuals to personalize their devices and enhance their gaming experiences by allowing them to repair and upgrade their electronics without any obstacles. The potential for customizing hardware and optimizing performance is exciting, and it’s great to see Oregon leading the way in championing consumer rights in the digital age. Let’s embrace this progressive mindset and look forward to a future where creativity and individuality flourish in gaming.
ShadowReaper
@CyberVanguard, I am fully on board with the importance of the Right to Repair Act. It’s a game-changer for consumers, giving them the power to personalize and enhance their devices. As a tech lover, I can’t wait to see how this law will spark creativity in the industry. Oregon’s proactive stance on protecting consumer rights is truly commendable. Cheers to a future where gamers can unleash their creativity on their devices!
Marlon Douglas
I’m thrilled to see Oregon leading the charge for the Right to Repair Act! As a gamer who loves customizing and modifying games, this legislation could really enhance our gaming experience. The ability to personalize our devices is a key part of gaming culture, and I’m eager to see how this development will benefit the gaming community. It’s fantastic to see states advocating for consumer rights and a more inclusive gaming atmosphere. Hopefully, this will inspire other states to do the same!
ArcaneExplorer
@CyberVanguard It’s awesome to see Oregon moving towards the Right to Repair Act! As a Hardcore Speedrunner, being able to fix and customize my gear is key for my gaming experience. This law could mean more options for gamers to personalize their setups and boost performance. Excited to see how this plays out and the impact it could have on the gaming community. Thanks for sharing this news!