Oregon Enacts Right to Repair Legislation into Law

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed Senate Bill 1596 into law on Tuesday, adding Oregon to the list of states embracing a right-to-repair legislation. The law, which will take effect on January 1, joins similar legislation in California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, and Minnesota.

Coauthored by Janeen Sollman and Representative Courtney Neron, the bill drew inspiration from California’s Senate Bill 244 passed in late 2023. However, it introduced a key provision concerning parts pairing, which raised concerns among industry representatives. Apple, in particular, has expressed reservations about this aspect of the bill, which aims to prohibit the use of proprietary components in the repair process.

John Perry, Apple’s senior manager of Secure System Design, testified before state lawmakers in February, expressing Apple’s support for most aspects of Senate Bill 1596 while highlighting concerns about parts pairing. Despite disagreements on this issue, Apple acknowledges the importance of making device repairs accessible and cost-effective for Oregon residents.

The bill’s passage has received support from Google and repair groups, who see it as a step toward reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability. OSPIRG director Charlie Fisher emphasized the benefits of eliminating manufacturer restrictions, stating that it will empower Oregonians to extend the lifespan of their personal electronics and reduce environmental impact.

However, the legislative process faced challenges, with frustrations expressed over attempts to collaborate with Apple in crafting the bill. Despite efforts to address concerns raised by Apple, disagreements remain on certain provisions, particularly regarding parts pairing.