Bill > HB2373

This bill creates the Equipment Right to Repair Act, which requires manufacturers of farm and agricultural equipment to make repair documentation, parts, and tools available to independent repair providers and equipment owners after the manufacturer's warranty expires. The bill defines key terms such as "authorized repair provider," "independent repair provider," and "tools and documentation," and establishes that the Commissioner of Agriculture will have jurisdiction over implementing and enforcing the act. Manufacturers must provide access to repair information, technical updates, and embedded software, but are not required to disclose trade secrets. The act imposes civil penalties of at least $1,000 for violations, with each day of continued violation considered a separate offense. The bill allows the commissioner to seek injunctive relief through circuit courts to compel compliance. Notably, the act applies only to equipment sold, leased, or used in West Virginia and will be in effect from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2028. The legislation aims to give farmers and independent repair shops more flexibility in maintaining and repairing agricultural equipment by ensuring they have access to necessary repair resources.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2373&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill