Colorado has become the first state to pass what’s called “a right to repair” law that allows farmers to fix their own tractors and combines. Manufacturers have been accused of monopolizing the repair market by only offering repairs through them.
The Colorado law breaks that up. It helps farmers in the state save valuable time and money. When equipment breaks down, farmers often have to wait on the manufacturer for weeks to get a repair made.
This law compels manufacturers to provide the necessary manuals, tools, parts and software for a farmer or a technician to make a fix themselves rather than solely relying on the company.
It has been a good year for farmers. In January, John Deere, the best-selling tractor brand in the U.S., made a deal with the Farm Bureau Federation to give their customers the right to repair.
The agreement meant John Deere would make the necessary tools available for farmers who need to fix equipment rather than farmers only being able to go through the company for repairs. The agreement was meant to help farmers through the private sector instead of legislation or regulation.
But Colorado wants to further enforce the right to repair for other manufacturers.
Manufacturers have pushed back against the legislation. They have expressed concern that farmers’ safety could be at risk by tampering with the mechanics, and it could expose a business’ trade secrets and software for others to steal.
Colorado took the first step to free up the repair market, which is seen as a major win for farmers. At least 10 other states are considering similar legislation.
