The conversation of “right to repair” has been happening around the country with some states taking action. The conversation has come to Utah thanks to Senator Ron Winterton who is thinking specifically of farmers but the application of “right to repair” could extend beyond that. “Right to repair” legislation would aim to require manufacturers to work with consumers in a timely manner for part repairs, software issues, needed tools and if the equipment is taken to an outside repair shop, the manufacturer would be prevented from voiding the warranty. Senator Winterton proposed that some kind of bill be put together in Utah because he has heard from constituents in the Uintah Basin that find themselves stuck with equipment needing repairs but are at the mercy of the manufactures waitlist of mechanics authorized to work on the farm equipment. Senator Winterton presented about “right to repair” during last week’s Government Operations Interim Committee meeting and the response was of support in exploring some kind of “right to repair” bill.
