This is interesting.
California on Wednesday became the latest state to ready so-called “right to repair” legislation that would require companies like Apple to provide consumers and third-party repair outlets access to repair information, diagnostic equipment and parts.
California State Assembly member Susan Talamantes Eggman announced the intent to join 17 other states with similar legislation on the table.
Per Eggman:
“The Right to Repair Act will provide consumers with the freedom to have their electronic products and appliances fixed by a repair shop or service provider of their choice, a practice that was taken for granted a generation ago but is now becoming increasingly rare in a world of planned obsolescence.”
Eggman went on to argue that customers who are unable to pay for high-priced manufacturer repairs are then forces to replace broken devices with new units. How consumers are able to afford device replacements and not repairs, which are are in most cases less expensive, was not explained in the release.
She also argued that repairing and reusing electronic devices serves as a better use of source materials and can “stimulate local economies instead of unsustainable overseas factories.”
Eggman’s announcement was touted by third-party repair firm iFixit in its own press release mailed out to press on Wednesday.
Apple, which is one of the main targets of this and similar “right to repair” bills, has in the past voiced opposition to government-backed legislation, arguing on the behalf of its industry secrets as well as the potential for security and safety issues for existing customers. The company contends its products should only be serviced by Apple Authorized technicians, a stance that irks third-party repair firms.
The company argued that repairs through Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized outfits allows it to maintain tighter controls and a more consistent experience.
Interestingly, in lobbying a similar right to repair effort in Nebraska last year, Apple admitted it would not oppose the legislation if phones were excepted from the proposed bill.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and the California State Assembly