Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB31

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/25
• Refer: 2/17/25

Caption

Repair and replacement of implements of husbandry under warranty.

Impact

The implications of AB31 are far-reaching for both manufacturers and consumers in the agricultural industry. By stipulating strict criteria for warranty compliance and consumer rights regarding defective products, the bill seeks to hold manufacturers accountable. This could foster improvements in product quality and service by incentivizing manufacturers to address recurring defects. Moreover, farmers can expect a more reliable experience with their equipment, reducing downtime and financial losses caused by defective machinery.

Summary

Assembly Bill 31 (AB31) introduces regulations for the repair and replacement of implements of husbandry under warranty. Designed to protect consumers, this bill mandates that if a piece of agricultural equipment does not conform to its warranty, the manufacturer or authorized dealer must attempt repairs. If the same issue persists after four repair attempts, or if the equipment is out of service for a total of 30 days, consumers become eligible for a full refund or a replacement implement of husbandry. This represents a significant enhancement of consumer protections in the agricultural sector, akin to a 'lemon law' for farm equipment.

Contention

While AB31 aims to safeguard consumer interests, it may also generate discussions surrounding its impact on manufacturers. Some industry stakeholders may argue that the bill imposes an undue burden on them by mandating costly repairs and potential replacements. Manufacturers could express concerns about being held liable for defects outside of their control, particularly those arising from misuse or neglect by consumers. As the bill progresses, balancing consumer protection with fair operational burdens for manufacturers will be crucial to ensure that it serves the interests of both parties.