The proposed bill, titled the Digital Right to Repair Act, aims to enhance the rights of consumers and independent service providers regarding the diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of digital products. It mandates that digital product manufacturers must provide independent service providers and product owners with necessary documentation, parts, and tools for repairs, including updates or changes made to software or firmware. Additionally, manufacturers are prohibited from using parts pairing technology that restricts the installation of non-approved replacement parts, and they must ensure that any security features can be reset during repairs. The bill also outlines the terms under which documentation, parts, and tools must be provided, ensuring that costs are reasonable and comparable to those offered to authorized service providers.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new unlawful act under the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act for violations related to the provisions of digital product diagnosis, maintenance, and repair. It clarifies that the act does not apply to medical devices or motor vehicles and establishes that existing contracts or licenses prior to the bill's effective date will remain unchanged. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to empower consumers and independent service providers while ensuring fair access to necessary resources for the repair of digital products.

Statutes affected:
SB0111A, AM SB 111, introduced 02/26/2025: 45.45.800, 45.45.890, 45.45.810, 45.45.820, 45.45.830, 45.45.840, 45.45.850, 45.45.860, 45.50.940, 45.45.870, 45.45.880, 45.50.471
SB0111B, AM CSSB 111(CRA), introduced 04/09/2025: 45.45.800, 45.45.899, 45.45.810, 45.45.820, 45.45.830, 45.45.840, 45.45.850, 45.45.860, 45.45.870, 45.50.940, 45.45.880, 45.45.890, 45.45.895, U.S.C, 45.50.471