California has become the third U.S. state, after Minnesota and New York, to pass an electronics right-to-repair act. Senate Bill 244 was unanimously approved by the California state Assembly and Senate. The legislation now awaits the signature of Governor Gavin Newsom. Unlike the other states, California's bill mandates companies to provide extended access to repair materials such as parts, tools, and software. Products priced between $50 and $99.99 must have materials available for three years, while those costing $100 or more must have them for seven years. This applies to electronics and appliances manufactured and sold after July 1st, 2021. Given California's significance as the base for many tech giants and its large population, the bill's passage could influence similar legislation nationwide. iFixit, a company known for advocating the right-to-repair, co-sponsored SB 244. Apple, which previously opposed such legislation, recently expressed its support for California's bill. However, the final impact of the bill will be determined once it's officially enacted. All three states' right-to-repair laws are anticipated to be implemented in 2024.
Photo Credit: Tyler Lastovich