Bill > H5017

This bill requires manufacturers of complex power wheelchairs and related assistive technology to provide independent repair providers and device owners with access to documentation, parts, software, firmware, and tools needed for repair and maintenance, at fair and reasonable terms and costs. The legislation defines numerous technical terms and establishes that repair providers and consumers can perform self-repairs on specific wheelchair components like batteries, wheel assemblies, and non-positioning accessories, with some exceptions for parts requiring clinical expertise. Manufacturers must make repair resources available without prior authorization, though they are not liable for improper repairs performed by independent providers. The bill applies to various health insurance and public employee plans, including Medicaid, and will take effect on January 1, 2026. Key protections include ensuring that manufacturers cannot withhold critical repair information while still protecting their trade secrets, and mandating that suppliers who sell complex wheelchairs must offer service and repairs throughout the device's useful life, with limited exceptions for consumer relocation or safety concerns.

Business and Industry

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