New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06569

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Enacts the "consumer wheelchair repair bill of rights act" requiring manufacturers to make available certain documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, or tools necessary for repairing equipment; establishes a timely repair for wheelchair program; extends the warranty period for wheelchairs to 2 years; deems all wheelchair repairs needed within 5 years of initial prescription medically necessary.

Impact

The implications of this act are multifaceted. It creates a significant shift in how wheelchair repairs are managed, ensuring that repair requests are prioritized and completed within a mandated timeframe. Specifically, it establishes a 'Timely Repair for Wheelchairs' program under the oversight of the chief disability officer, holding wheelchair manufacturers and dealers accountable for prompt service. Furthermore, it recognizes all wheelchair repairs requested within five years post-prescription as medically necessary without requiring additional authorization, thereby simplifying processes for users and caregivers in critical situations.

Summary

Bill A06569, known as the 'Consumer Wheelchair Repair Bill of Rights Act', seeks to enhance the rights of wheelchair users when it comes to repair and maintenance of their wheelchairs. The legislation compels manufacturers to provide accessible and comprehensive information, necessary parts, and tools for repairing powered wheelchairs. Most notably, it mandates a two-year warranty for such devices, extending the previous one-year period, thereby improving consumer protection and ensuring that consumers receive adequate support when issues arise with their wheelchairs. This act aims to alleviate challenges faced by users regarding repair access and accountability.

Contention

While the bill is poised to enhance consumer protection, potential concerns may arise from manufacturers regarding the requirement to share proprietary information for repairs and the legal implications tied to warranty extensions. Manufacturer responses may reflect resistance towards mandatory transparency about repair processes and parts, especially if perceived as affecting their competitive edge or operational frameworks. Nevertheless, proponents argue that these changes are essential in promoting fair practices and ensuring that wheelchair users receive necessary support and services that reflect their needs.

Companion Bills

NY S04500

Same As Enacts the "consumer wheelchair repair bill of rights act" requiring manufacturers to make available certain documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, or tools necessary for repairing equipment; establishes a timely repair for wheelchair program; extends the warranty period for wheelchairs to 2 years; deems all wheelchair repairs needed within 5 years of initial prescription medically necessary.

Previously Filed As

NY J01361

Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Wheelchair Charities, Inc.

NY A04054

Requires the New York city housing authority to repair certain conditions within thirty days of receipt of a written notice requesting such repairs; requires NYCHA to convert from gas to electric appliances when repairing or replacing any such appliances.

NY K00620

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 7, 2023, as Wheelchair Charities Day in the State of New York

NY J01861

Commending Sitrin Health Care Center upon the occasion of hosting its 20th Annual Celebrity Classic Wheelchair Basketball Game

NY K00900

Commending Sitrin Health Care Center upon the occasion of hosting its 20th Annual Celebrity Classic Wheelchair Basketball Game

NY S03324

Allows certain persons who are permanently disabled and require the use of a wheelchair to have free use of any of the public campsites, parks and other public places of recreation in this state.

NY A04411

Allows certain persons who are permanently disabled and require the use of a wheelchair to have free use of any of the public campsites, parks and other public places of recreation in this state.

NY S00503

Provides for coverage for certain medically necessary prescription drugs in Medicaid managed care programs.

NY A00059

Requires motor vehicle repair shops to disclose types of replacement parts used in automobile collision repairs and provides a disclosure form to be signed by the owner consenting to the use of any such parts; forbids use of any other parts except new original equipment manufacturer parts on any vehicle during the first year of its manufacture and for the two years following.

NY S02367

Requires motor vehicle repair shops to disclose types of replacement parts used in automobile collision repairs and provides a disclosure form to be signed by the owner consenting to the use of any such parts; forbids use of any other parts except new original equipment manufacturer parts on any vehicle during the first year of its manufacture and for the two years following.

Similar Bills

NY S04500

Enacts the "consumer wheelchair repair bill of rights act" requiring manufacturers to make available certain documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, or tools necessary for repairing equipment; establishes a timely repair for wheelchair program; extends the warranty period for wheelchairs to 2 years; deems all wheelchair repairs needed within 5 years of initial prescription medically necessary.

TN HB0414

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47 and Title 56, relative to repair and other services performed on powered wheelchairs and parts.

TN SB0077

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47 and Title 56, relative to repair and other services performed on powered wheelchairs and parts.

CT HB06702

An Act Concerning A Consumer's Right To Timely Wheelchair Repairs.

CO HB1121

Consumer Right to Repair Digital Electronic Equipment

IL HB3490

WHEELCHAIR RIGHT TO REPAIR

MA S152

Expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities

MA H378

Expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities