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 who can service both types of equipment and require OEMs to supply 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. A new subdivision prohibits OEMs from employing mechanisms such as parts pairing or proprietary firmware to limit repairs or impose extra costs on independent repair providers.

The bill also clarifies OEMs' liability, stating they are not responsible for damages caused by independent repair providers unless linked to design or manufacturing defects. It specifies that OEMs and authorized repair providers are not liable for damages resulting from diagnosis, maintenance, or modifications performed by independent repair providers or equipment owners, including indirect or consequential damages. Additionally, certain manufacturers, such as those of motor vehicles and medical devices, are exempt from these requirements, and provisions are included to exempt energy storage systems and critical infrastructure information technology equipment from specific obligations. Manufacturers are not required to provide cybersecurity-related parts or documentation unless necessary for repair or maintenance.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 325E.72