H.B. No. 2963 introduces Chapter 121 to the Business & Commerce Code, which focuses on the diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of digital electronic equipment. The bill defines key terms such as "authorized repair provider," "independent repair provider," and "digital electronic equipment," and establishes the obligations of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to provide necessary tools, replacement parts, and documentation for repairs. OEMs must make these resources available under fair terms to both authorized and independent repair providers within one year of the first sale. Certain categories of equipment, including medical devices and safety communications equipment, are exempt from these requirements. Additionally, any contractual provisions that attempt to waive these obligations are deemed void and unenforceable.

The bill also addresses deceptive trade practices related to digital electronic equipment, allowing the Attorney General to take legal action against violations after a specified cure period. It clarifies that there is no private right of action for violations of this chapter and grants the Attorney General the authority to recover reasonable attorney's fees and expenses incurred during investigations. The provisions of this chapter will apply to digital electronic equipment sold in Texas after the effective date of the Act, set for September 1, 2026, and in cases of conflict with existing agreements between authorized repair providers and manufacturers, the terms of those agreements will prevail.

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