Landmark Legislation Empowers Consumers and Independent Repair Shops
Oregon has taken a significant step in consumer rights with the enactment of a Right to Repair bill, setting a precedent by outlawing the practice of “parts pairing.” This groundbreaking legislation, signed into law this week, notably impacts manufacturers like Apple, prohibiting them from mandating the use of company-sourced parts that must undergo authentication.
Under the new law, Apple device owners gain the freedom to utilize new, used, or third-party parts for repairs, without being bound to proprietary components. This move empowers consumers with greater flexibility and choice in maintaining and repairing their devices.
Apple’s Self Service Repair Program, which caters to both independent repair shops and consumers, previously required repair components to be acquired directly from the company. Once installed, these components had to be paired with a device serial number, effectively blocking unauthorized repairs using third-party parts. The Right to Repair bill nullifies this requirement, ensuring that consumers are not penalized for opting for alternative repair solutions.
Considered the most robust Right to Repair law passed thus far, Oregon’s legislation also includes consumer protections. Independent repair shops are mandated to possess valid certification, affirming the technical competence necessary to perform successful repairs. This provision safeguards consumers by ensuring that repairs are conducted by qualified professionals.
By eliminating parts pairing restrictions, the law opens doors for independent repair shops to conduct a broader range of repairs, reducing reliance on OEM components from manufacturers like Apple.
Furthermore, the legislation compels companies to provide access to parts, tools, documentation, and software for smartphones manufactured in 2021 or later, extending to devices produced in 2015 and beyond for other electronics like computers.
Despite opposition from Apple, which cited safety and security concerns for consumers, the enactment of Oregon’s Right to Repair bill marks a significant victory for consumer advocacy. Apple will be required to comply with the parts pairing prohibition for products manufactured after January 1, 2025.
