Right to Repair Is Gaining Ground- And It’s Just Getting Started

Colorado followed suit with its own expanded legislation, HB24‑1121, signed into law earlier this year.

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): In recent months, two major state victories have helped turn the tide on repair access—pushing the right-to-repair movement further into the mainstream and setting powerful precedents for future legislation.

Oregon and Colorado Lead the Way

Oregon’s Right to Repair Act, which went into effect in January 2025, is now the strongest law of its kind in the country. Not only does it require manufacturers to provide consumers and independent repair shops with access to essential repair materials—like tools, manuals, parts, and diagnostic software—it also breaks new ground by banning “parts pairing.” This common manufacturer practice restricts third-party repairs by digitally locking devices to original components. With Oregon’s ban, the state has sent a clear message: repairs shouldn’t be held hostage by design.

Colorado followed suit with its own expanded legislation, HB24‑1121, signed into law earlier this year. Building on earlier policies for wheelchairs and agricultural equipment, the new law covers most consumer electronics sold after mid-2021 and ensures that device owners and independent technicians can access the materials they need to fix devices safely and affordably.

Why It Matters Now

These new laws arrive at a pivotal moment. Consumer electronics have become increasingly difficult to repair, with glued-in batteries, proprietary screws, and software locks that limit options and drive up costs. When devices break, they’re often discarded—contributing to a fast-growing stream of electronic waste. In 2019, the U.S. generated nearly 7 million tons of e-waste, most of which ended up in landfills or incinerators.

Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com