The proposed bill establishes a right to repair for mobility equipment used by individuals with physical disabilities in Washington State. It mandates that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) provide independent repair providers and equipment owners with access to necessary documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, and tools on fair and reasonable terms. This initiative aims to reduce the lengthy repair times that many users currently face, which can significantly impact their quality of life, employment, and safety. The bill outlines definitions for various terms related to repair services and establishes the responsibilities of OEMs in making repair resources available.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that OEMs are not required to sell parts that are no longer available to authorized repair providers and protects trade secrets while ensuring that documentation and tools are accessible. It also states that OEMs and authorized repair providers are not liable for damages caused by independent repair providers during the repair process, except in cases of design or manufacturing defects. Violations of this chapter are deemed unfair or deceptive acts under the consumer protection act, allowing enforcement solely by the attorney general. The bill adds a new chapter to Title 19 RCW, encompassing these provisions.