The Iowa Right to Repair Act establishes new regulations for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of digital electronic equipment, specifically targeting hand-held electronic communication devices, home appliances, and motor vehicles that are six years old or older. Under this act, OEMs are required to provide diagnostic and repair information, including updates and corrections, to independent repair providers and consumers holding a legal interest in the equipment at no charge or under the same terms as those offered to authorized repair providers. Additionally, OEMs must make diagnostic repair tools available for purchase to independent repair providers and consumers on fair and reasonable terms. The act also clarifies that manufacturers are not obligated to supply replacement parts that are no longer available and protects trade secrets and warranty agreements from being compromised.
The enforcement of this act falls under the jurisdiction of the attorney general, who is tasked with adopting necessary rules and ensuring compliance. Violations of the act by manufacturers are classified as unfair or deceptive trade practices, allowing the attorney general to pursue civil actions, including seeking injunctive relief or imposing civil penalties of up to $40,000 per violation. The act aims to enhance consumer rights and promote fair competition in the repair market by ensuring access to essential repair information and tools.