The bill amends the Michigan Consumer Protection Act to enhance consumer rights and protections against unfair trade practices, specifically addressing misleading representations, deceptive advertising, and the failure to disclose material facts. It clarifies that representations must accurately reflect the goods or services offered and introduces new requirements for manufacturers to provide necessary documentation, parts, and tools to independent repair providers. This aims to promote fair competition and consumer choice in the repair market while protecting manufacturers' trade secrets.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new definitions and requirements related to the repair of powered wheelchairs and their components, including terms like "authorized repair provider" and "independent repair provider." It mandates that manufacturers supply documentation, parts, and tools to both authorized and independent repair providers at fair and reasonable terms, ensuring no charge for documentation and free access to software tools necessary for repairs. The legislation emphasizes the importance of providing these resources in a manner that does not impede the efficient performance of the equipment and clarifies the roles of manufacturers, owners, and repair providers. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 445.903