The bill amends Chapter 6-45 of the General Laws, which is concerned with "Consumer Enforcement of Assistive Technology Device Warranties." It introduces a new section, 6-45-4, which defines what constitutes a "reasonable number of attempts to repair" an assistive technology device. According to the amendment, a reasonable number of attempts is met if the same nonconformity is repaired two or more times during a specified term, or if the device is out of service for 30 or more calendar days due to nonconformities. The amendment also specifies how to count the days when the device is out of service and requires manufacturers/vendors to keep detailed written records of all repair attempts, including dates, types of repairs, duration, results, and the total number of attempts.

Additionally, the bill mandates that at the time of purchase or lease, manufacturers must provide consumers with a clear statement, in bolded type, informing them of their rights under Chapter 6-45. This includes the right to a replacement or refund if the device remains defective after two repair attempts within two years, or if it is out of service for 30 days within the first year. The statement must also inform consumers that they are entitled to a loaner device if theirs is out of service for more than seven days or if not having a device poses a safety threat. The bill aims to enhance consumer rights and increase awareness of the law by ensuring that consumers are informed about their warranty rights at the time of purchase. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5560: 6-45-4