California Passes Right-to-Repair Law for Consumer Control

“This is a common sense bill that will help small repair shops, give choice to consumers, and protect the environment.”

The state of California, in a historic move, has passed a new law that makes it easier for people to repair their electronics themselves or go to independent repair shops. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Right to Repair Act, also known as SB 244, into law last week. 

The law applies to electronics manufactured and sold in California after July 1, 2021. While the legislation covers a wide range of devices, there are exemptions for game consoles and alarm systems.

Under this law, manufacturers are required to provide the necessary tools, parts, software and manuals needed to repair devices that cost more than $100 for 7 years after the product is made. For devices under $100, manufacturers need to provide repair materials for 3 years.

"This is a common sense bill that will help small repair shops, give choice to consumers, and protect the environment,” said California State Senator, Susan Eggman. 

The bill received widespread support, including from tech giant Apple. This move by the state of California, home to numerous device manufacturers, including Apple and Google, acts as a model that may benefit consumers in states without similar legislation.

This groundbreaking legislation has far-reaching implications for consumers. It empowers individuals to make economically and environmentally conscious choices by enabling them to repair and maintain their devices, rather than replacing them prematurely. This not only saves consumers money but also contributes to the reduction of electronic waste, a growing environmental concern. 

The extended availability of repair resources ensures that devices stay in service for longer, reducing the need for new manufacturing and conserving valuable resources. 

California's Right-to-Repair Act sets a significant precedent, fostering a culture of sustainability and consumer empowerment, where people can enjoy both the economic benefits of repair and the environmental advantages of fewer discarded electronic devices