Protect your right to repair! Each day we take pride in giving tech users options regarding how to handle their damaged device. Repair options make life easier for consumers, reduce environmental waste, and help business. However, access to convenient, reasonably priced electronic repairs may not be available in the future without state approval of The Digital Right to Repair Act, otherwise known as the “Fair Repair Act”. Large manufacturers have fought against Fair Repair legislation for years, and continue to do so.
right to repair legislation
Specifically, the Digital Right to Repair Act would require manufacturers to provide the public equal access to replacement parts, tools, and service information. The purpose would be to secure a person’s right to repair damaged electronics (ie. smartphones, computers) themselves, or to use an independent repair shop for service. Without this right, replacing damaged tech might be the only option.
If you’re wondering “..But don’t we have this right already?”. Not for electronic repairs! We do have right to repair laws for cars (thanks to MA residents who fought for these rights in 2012), and because of this, nothing prevents you from possibly changing your own air filter, accessing an auto repair manual, or getting your car serviced at your preferred auto body shop. In the same way, it seems only fair to apply these laws to the tech we use on a daily basis.
Fortunately, Massachusetts residents can take action towards the bill’s state approval. According to the Repair Association, Massachusetts is one of 16 states who have introduced a right to repair bill for electronics. Historically, our state is known for taking a stand on important issues – that said – if there is a state that might get this bill passed, its ours. With this in mind, we’ll share how to protect your right to repair and support shops like ours (in 4 easy steps).
take action
- 1. click here; then click on Massachusetts
- 2. complete the form (name, email, address)
- 3. click “start writing”.
- *There’s no need to actually write anything. A pre-written template is already embedded.
- 4. click “send letter
Extra Steps
You can take an extra step if you like. After clicking send, you’ll see an option to spread the word about the letter. Feel free to share the link to Facebook, Twitter, etc. encouraging them to take action.
Further Reading
If you’d like to read more on the subject check out these articles:
The Right to Repair & Fair Repair Legislation from the Repair Association
A Right to Repair Movement “Tools Up” If its Broken You Can’t Fix it from the Economist
You Bought That Gadget Damnit, and You Should Be Able to Fix it! written by Kyle Wiens via Wired
Why We Must Fight for the Right to Repair Our Electronics written by Kyle Wiens, the co-founder of and CEO of iFixit and Gay Gordon Byrne, the executive director of Repair.org
Thanks for reading and taking the time to protect your right to fair, affordable repairs. Share thoughts, questions, or comments below.