The self-service movement is making significant strides
By Willie Cade, Repair.org
Buckle up, folks, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Right to Repair movement.
With 18 state legislatures championing agricultural repair rights, particularly concerning diesel engine controls and another 20 states focused on other product categories, we’re on the cusp of a repair revolution that could benefit all electronically-controlled products.
The incoming administration has pledged significant reforms in this arena. While promises are plentiful, only time will reveal the tangible changes ahead. Meanwhile, antitrust lawsuits — both civil and those initiated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — are pressing forward, keeping the spotlight on repair rights. Every day, journalists are shedding light on Right to Repair issues, amplifying the conversation.
Defense Department Offensive
In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Department of Defense is embracing Right to Repair principles. The latest National Defense Authorization Act, particularly Section 828, stipulates that the government will only procure goods if contractors agree to provide “fair and reasonable access to all the repair materials, including parts, tools and information” necessary for maintenance and repair. It’s astonishing that such legislation is necessary, but here we are. Kudos to Sen. Elizabeth Warren for spearheading this initiative!
Globally, Australia is making impressive strides as well. The Australian treasurer has unveiled a $900 million National Productivity Fund to encourage states and territories to adopt productivity-enhancing reforms, including a general Right to Repair. This commitment underscores Australia’s dedication to empowering consumers, supporting independent repair industries and promoting sustainability across various sectors.
Repairability rating systems are also gaining traction worldwide. France has implemented such a system by law, and India is developing its own standards. In the U.S., major corporations are engaging with DIY enthusiasts, signaling a shift toward more repair-friendly practices.
Canada Takes Up the Cause
Our neighbor to the north isn’t sitting idle either. Canada has recently advanced Right to Repair initiatives, empowering consumers to maintain and repair their devices. Notably, the passage of bills that have received “royal assent” (the final step for legislation to become law in Canada) marks a significant milestone in this journey.
At its core, the Right to Repair debate centers on ownership: when you purchase a product, do you truly own it or does the manufacturer retain control? It seems absurd, but in today’s highly consolidated, monopolistic market, this is the reality. The rationale behind numerous mega-mergers was that consumers would benefit from better pricing through economies of scale. However, “scale” now often serves to extract more from customers, both before and after a sale.
As we navigate this evolving landscape, I encourage you to reach out and ask, “How can I help?” Whether at the state, federal or international level, your involvement is crucial. With collective effort, 2025 promises to deliver significant advancements in the Right to Repair movement.
Willie Cade is a Repair.org director, AVB guest speaker and tireless advocate for the right of consumers, independent servicers, farmers and others to perform their own product and equipment repairs outside the constraints of OEMs, with ready access to necessary tools, parts and documentation. Follow him on X at @WillieCade7.
