House Small Business Committee: Right to Repair and What it Means for Entrepreneurs

Many of today's consumer electronics and automobiles have become increasingly more difficult to fix or maintain. Oftentimes, the diagnostic software and component parts necessary for repairs are not easily accessible. This may be a result of repair restrictions created by the manufacturers of these items. Not only does this result in massive amounts of electronic waste, but it inhibits opportunities for independent businesses to repair items, increases costs on consumers and small firms, and is inconvenient for individuals in rural areas. This hearing will examine the impacts of these types of restrictions on small businesses. Members will hear from experts and small businesses about practices that restrict repair, how those practices harm independent businesses, and what policy proposals exist to address them.