The US state of New York is the first to legislate a right to repair for electronic products. But at the last minute the law was radically changed, so that it now implies virtually no additional rights for individuals and small repair companies.
Governor signs amended version of bill
Last summer, the New York State Senate voted in favor of a bill that would give individuals the right to repair electronic equipment they have purchased. Manufacturers would thus be required to provide assembly instructions, wiring diagrams and other essential information about their devices, as well as spare parts and unrestricted access to all parts of the device required for repair. New York thus considers itself a pioneer in the United States and in the world. The right to repair aimed to lead to more sustainable consumer behavior, thereby reducing ecological problems caused by mass consumption, and to reduce social inequalities by providing access to functional electronic devices, essential for social participation , more affordable in the long term.
However, all this is now out of the question. The law came into force. However, Governor Kathy Hochul did not sign the version approved by the legislature, but an amended version of the law that contains many restrictions. For example, manufacturers are now still allowed to sell batches of replacement parts instead of individual parts. This significantly increases repair costs for individuals, who can no longer necessarily purchase a new screen, but must purchase a package including the screen, battery and motherboard. The right to obtain passwords, codes or hardware necessary to access certain parts of the device has also been removed. In practice, this means that repairs will remain largely impossible without the use of appropriate authorized repair shops.
Another change concerns the validity of the law. It is now envisaged that only devices produced or sold in New York from June 2023 will be covered. Consequently, the right to repair will not apply to any equipment purchased before this date.
Widespread criticism of the amendment
The last-minute change to the law sparked widespread criticism. In this context, reference is constantly made to the fact that the law, in its current form, is factually ineffective. Furthermore, criticism is aimed at the fact that ultimately the interests of large corporations have been placed above those of individuals, whom the law is supposed to protect.
2023-11-12 23:41:11
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