The proposed bill establishes a Complex Rehabilitation Technology and Wheelchair Repair Advisory Council, which will oversee wheelchair repairs, particularly those involving complex rehabilitation technology. The council will now include three consumer representatives, an increase from the previous two, along with representatives from advocacy organizations and state officials. Members will serve two-year terms and are required to meet monthly, providing annual reports on their findings and recommendations to relevant legislative committees. The bill also modifies the council's membership by replacing one appointed member with an authorized dealer instead of a consumer who privately pays for complex rehabilitation technology.

Additionally, the bill mandates that authorized wheelchair dealers enhance their communication and reporting practices. Dealers must respond to repair requests within one business day, provide timely home repairs upon request, and submit monthly reports on repair timelines to the advisory council. They are also required to inform consumers of their rights to timely repairs, including the option for home repairs, through written notices at the time of purchase or lease, in correspondence, and on their websites. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aim to improve the efficiency and accountability of wheelchair repair services while ensuring consumer protection.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-339, 42-338
HS Joint Favorable Substitute: 42-339, 42-338
File No. 490: 42-339, 42-338