Bill > HB301

This bill enacts the Digital Fair Repair Act, which requires original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of digital electronic equipment to make available documentation, parts, and tools to independent repair providers and device owners on fair and reasonable terms. The bill defines key terms like "digital electronic equipment" (valued over $10) and explicitly excludes certain types of devices such as motor vehicles, medical devices, and safety communications equipment. OEMs must provide repair documentation, tools, and parts at no or minimal cost, without imposing unreasonable restrictions or requiring special authorization. The bill prohibits manufacturers from using "parts pairing" or other mechanisms to prevent the installation of non-manufacturer replacement parts or reduce device functionality. If an OEM violates these provisions, consumers can take legal action, though the manufacturers are not liable for damage caused during independent repairs. The law includes several important exceptions, such as protecting trade secrets and not requiring manufacturers to provide parts for modifying devices. The act will go into effect 120 days after its enactment and aims to give consumers and independent repair shops more access to the resources needed to fix digital electronic devices.

Business and Industry

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb301