The time for Right to Repair has come. This year, at least 29 states introduced some sort of bill to address the need for individuals and businesses to be able to repair things from cell phones to tractors. Folks across the US overwhelmingly support the policy. Here in Minnesota, SF1598 and HF1337 would give Minnesotans the ability to access parts and manuals for fixing a wide variety of items.  

At this point in the legislative session, many bills have been combined into omnibus bills. Right to Repair has been included in both the Senate and House Commerce omnibus policy bills. Our coalition of supporters has worked to address questions raised by the opposition and to clarify language, while ensuring that key elements of the bill remain intact. Unfortunately, opponents of the bill are actively petitioning legislators to water down provisions currently included in the bill. In addition, an exemption was added to exclude agricultural equipment in the Senate. We want to ensure that nothing is watered down and that agricultural equipment is included in the final law. Farmers already had a win in Colorado, it is time for Minnesota to follow suit!

From what we understand, the bill will be heard on the Senate floor very soon. We encourage you to call or email your Senator today and tell them to stand strong on the proposed language and to not add any further exemptions. 

Here is sample language:

Dear Senator,

I am contacting you today in support of the proposed Fair Repair language in the Senate Commerce omnibus policy bill.

Right to Repair:

• Gives Minnesotans throughout the state the freedom of choice of where to bring digital equipment for repair.
• Supports and expands jobs across a spectrum of Minnesota industries – agriculture, tech, education, etc.
• Reduces the growing amount of e-waste in our world.

It is important that agricultural equipment be included to ensure farmers of all sizes can perform repairs in a timely fashion.

Please support Right to Repair, without further exemptions. Thank you for your time and consideration!

Learn more about Right to Repair on our advocacy page.