Oregon has emerged as a trailblazer in consumer rights advocacy with the passage of its landmark Right to Repair bill. Unlike its counterparts, this legislation boasts a groundbreaking provision aimed at curbing parts pairing—a practice that obstructs hardware replacements through software checks.
Governor Tina Kotek’s signing of the bill into law marks a watershed moment for consumer protection in the state. Scheduled to take effect in 2025, with retroactive application to hardware as far back as 2015, the law signifies a significant bipartisan triumph amidst a politically charged environment. Governor Kotek lauded the legislation as a victory for consumers and a boon for small businesses statewide.
Encompassing seven pages, SB 1596 (PDF link) incorporates essential Right to Repair tenets, mandating manufacturers to furnish repair documentation, tools, and replacement parts. However, it’s the prohibition of parts pairing that has garnered attention and acclaim from advocacy groups like iFixit.
Parts pairing, a tactic employed by manufacturers, utilizes software checks to restrict the functionality of third-party parts. Oregon’s groundbreaking legislation unequivocally outlaws this practice, empowering consumers and leveling the playing field for independent repair providers. Moreover, the law prohibits the dissemination of misleading alerts about unidentified parts—a common issue among iPhone users. Notably, Apple has voiced opposition to the legislation, particularly its stance on parts pairing.
By passing this legislation, Oregon sets a precedent for other states and underscores the importance of extending Right to Repair protections to all consumer electronics. As federal efforts through the REPAIR Act gain momentum, Oregon’s proactive approach signals a new era of consumer advocacy and empowerment.