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DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation on a preliminary vote to save farmers and ranchers money and time on costly agricultural equipment repairs.
“Right to repair gives farmers and ranchers the tools, information and parts they need to repair their equipment so they can get back in the field,” said Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada. “Often, farmers are forced to spend outrageous amounts on equipment repairs and are left waiting months for a repair technician. This bill gives farmers and ranchers the freedom to fix their own equipment or hire local technicians, saving them money and time and getting them back to work faster.”
HB23-1011 passed the House on a preliminary vote and would require agricultural equipment manufacturers to comply with existing consumer right to repair laws. Specifically, agricultural equipment manufacturers would need to provide necessary parts, software, firmware, tools or documentation to independent repair providers and owners at a fair and reasonable price.
Under this bill, agricultural equipment manufacturers or dealers selling on behalf of the manufacturer cannot upcharge for any repair items. This bill aims to save farmers and ranchers money on necessary equipment repairs while speeding up the repair process.
Agriculture is one of the largest and leading industries in the state of Colorado. HB23-1011 is supported by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, the Corn Growers, Wheat Growers, Wool Producers, Fruit and Vegetable Producers, the Cattleman, and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.
Last year, Representatives Titone and Ortiz passed two trailblazing right to repair laws specifically for wheelchair users. These laws require wheelchair manufacturers to provide parts and software to consumers and eliminate the need for prior authorization to repair powered wheelchairs and other complex mobility devices for Medicaid recipients. These laws provided the framework for HB23-1011.