Connecticut House Bill HB05255

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/22/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Electronic Device Manufacturers To Make Available Essential Components Of Its Electronic Devices To Owners And Independent Repair Service Providers.

Impact

If enacted, HB05255 would have significant implications for state laws regarding consumer protection and product repair. This bill would serve to alter the existing relationship between manufacturers and consumers, ensuring that consumers have the ability to seek repairs from independent providers rather than being limited to manufacturer-authorized services. The enactment of this bill could also spur increased competition in the repair market, potentially lowering costs for consumers and improving service quality as independent providers would gain easier access to necessary parts and documentation.

Summary

House Bill 05255 aims to address the growing concerns surrounding the right to repair electronic devices. The bill mandates that electronic device manufacturers provide owners and independent repair service providers with essential components, documentation, and tools necessary to diagnose, maintain, and repair their devices. This legislation seeks to promote consumer rights by enhancing the accessibility of repair resources, thereby empowering users to maintain their electronics without being solely reliant on manufacturers.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HB05255. Proponents argue that this legislation is crucial for fostering a culture of repairability, which counters the growing trend of disposable electronics and combats electronic waste. However, opponents, particularly from the manufacturing sector, express concerns about potential risks to the safety and security of devices if independent repair providers are granted wide access to repair resources. They argue that such measures could lead to unauthorized modifications that compromise device integrity and user safety.