Efforts to enhance right-to-repair laws in the United States have gained traction, particularly in Colorado. Since 2022, the state has enacted legislation enabling users to repair or upgrade their wheelchairs, agricultural equipment, and consumer electronics. This initiative has inspired similar bills across the country, with eight states passing their own versions. Danny Katz, executive director of CoPIRG, emphasized Colorado’s leadership in this area, stating, “We should be proud of leading the way.”
However, manufacturers are increasingly resistant to these efforts, as they benefit financially from selling tools, parts, and repair services. Some companies have reluctantly agreed to make their products more repairable, while others are actively opposing new laws designed to facilitate repairs. Recently, the Colorado Senate Business, Labor, and Technology committee voted unanimously to advance state bill SB26-090, which seeks to exempt certain critical infrastructure from the existing right-to-repair laws.
Details of SB26-090
This bill modifies the Colorado Consumer Right to Repair Digital Electronic Equipment act, which was enacted in 2024 and became effective in January 2026. SB26-090 aims to exempt information technology equipment used in critical infrastructure from these consumer repair rights. This legislation has garnered support from major tech manufacturers like Cisco and IBM, who argue that controlling repair access is essential for cybersecurity and protecting intellectual property.
Manufacturers’ Concerns
Manufacturers assert that allowing unrestricted access to repair tools could enable malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities. An IBM spokesperson stated, “IBM supports right-to-repair policies that empower consumers while protecting cybersecurity, intellectual property, and critical infrastructure.” Cisco representatives echoed similar sentiments during the hearing, indicating that not all digital technology devices warrant the same repair rights.
Opposition from Repair Advocates
During the legislative hearing, numerous repair advocates from organizations like Pirg, the Repair Association, and iFixit voiced their opposition to the bill. They criticized its vague language, which they believe could allow manufacturers to control repair access under the guise of protecting critical infrastructure. Nathan Proctor, leader of Pirg’s US right-to-repair campaign, described the bill’s language as “cynical,” arguing it could encompass a wide range of technology, effectively undermining consumer repair rights.
Future Implications
Despite the committee’s advancement of the bill, it still requires approval from the Colorado Senate and House before becoming law. Votes may occur as soon as next week. Regardless of the outcome, the ongoing push from manufacturers to modify or dismantle repair legislation in other states is likely to continue. Proctor emphasized the need for persistent advocacy, stating, “In practice everywhere, people need to be able to fix their stuff. This is proof that we have to keep going.”
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
