This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 325E.72, to expand the obligations of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to include the repair of farm equipment, in addition to digital electronic equipment. Key provisions define "authorized repair provider" to include those servicing both types of equipment and require OEMs to provide necessary documentation, parts, and tools to independent repair providers and equipment owners on fair and reasonable terms within 60 days of the equipment's first sale. The bill also prohibits OEM practices that could obstruct repairs, such as using proprietary firmware to block non-approved parts or issuing misleading alerts about parts. However, OEMs are not required to disclose trade secrets or intellectual property and are not liable for damages caused by independent repair providers, except in cases of design or manufacturing defects.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the liability of OEMs and authorized repair providers regarding damages or injuries related to digital electronic and farm equipment, stating they are not liable for damages resulting from actions taken by independent repair providers or equipment owners. It also exempts energy storage systems and information technology equipment for critical infrastructure from certain requirements and specifies that OEMs are not obligated to provide cybersecurity-related parts or documentation unless necessary for repair or maintenance. This ensures that sensitive information, such as trade secrets or personally identifiable information, remains protected under existing laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 325E.72