In March, Oregon passed SB 1596, which guarantees consumers the right to have their electronic devices repaired. Sponsored by Senator Janeen Sollman, the bill promotes a circular economy by extending the lifespan of electronics. While Oregon is the fourth state to implement the right to repair law, it is the first law to prevent “part pairing,” which gives consumers the ability to use unauthorized third-party parts.
- Why it is important: The constant release of new electronic models increases e-waste, resource depletion, financial burden on consumers, and repair of older models. In the U.S., 6.9 million tons of e-waste are produced annually, only a small portion of which is properly recycled. Laws like the “Right to Repair” promote a circular economy by extending product life, reducing e-waste, empowering consumers, supporting small businesses, and promoting sustainability and consumer rights.
Key components
- Prevents part pairing: Manufacturers cannot prevent independent suppliers or owners from using functional replacement parts, even if they are not approved by the manufacturer. Independent suppliers must disclose that they are not authorized by the manufacturer and whether the parts are used or come from other suppliers.
- Combat planned obsolescence: Manufacturers cannot reduce the functionality or performance of devices over time.
- No misleading warnings and repair documentation: Manufacturers must not display misleading warnings that cannot be ignored due to the part pairing. They must also provide owners and independent repair providers with appropriate repair documentation, tools and parts.
- Applies retroactively: The law applies retroactively to mobile phones launched on July 1, 2021 and later, as well as other consumer electronics sold on or after July 1, 2015.
Legislative sponsors
The bill was introduced by Senator Janeen Sollman, NCEL Director for the State of Oregon, and Representative Courtney Neron. Other co-signers included Senator Michael Dembrow, Senator Jeff Golden, Senator Aaron Woods, Representative Janelle Bynum, and Representative Rob Nosse.
Other government measures
There have been 42 other right-to-repair bills this year. Colorado also passed a law in May of this year.
- Colorado HB24-1121: Expands repair rights to not only electronics, but also appliances and other products. The law builds on Oregon’s success by emphasizing the development of products that allow for easier repair.
- Previously enacted laws include New York S.4104A (2022), Minnesota SF No. 1598 (2023), and California SB 244 (2023).
