Bill > SB382

This bill establishes a "Right to Repair" law specifically for powered wheelchairs in Maryland, requiring manufacturers to make available documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, and tools to independent repair providers and wheelchair owners on fair and reasonable terms. The bill defines key terms like "powered wheelchair" (a motorized wheeled device for people with physical disabilities), "independent repair provider" (a person not affiliated with the manufacturer who offers repair services), and "fair and reasonable terms and costs" (which includes providing materials at equivalent terms to authorized repair providers and at costs not exceeding suggested retail prices). The law applies to specific wheelchair parts such as batteries, joysticks, wheel assemblies, and other non-positioning components, mandating that manufacturers provide repair resources necessary for servicing these parts. Importantly, the bill stipulates that manufacturers are not liable for faulty repairs performed by independent providers, and any violation of the law is considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice subject to existing enforcement and penalty provisions under Maryland's commercial law. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, and will only apply to new contracts and arrangements, not retroactively affecting existing agreements between manufacturers and authorized repair providers.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0382?ys=2025RS