Three U.S. states passed right-to-repair laws this year, signaling a significant victory for advocates pushing for greater accessibility in electronics and equipment repair. The movement, which aims to allow individuals and independent shops to fix their own devices without manufacturer restrictions, has garnered support from a diverse coalition including technologists, farmers, military leaders, and politicians from both parties.

The passage of these laws marks a turning point for the right-to-repair movement, which has been advocating for decades to grant users the ability to repair devices ranging from iPhones to laptops without being forced to return to the manufacturer or risk voiding warranties by using unauthorized repair services. The laws mandate that manufacturers provide access to the parts, tools, and information needed for repairs, leveling the playing field for independent repair shops and consumers.

While the specific provisions of the laws vary by state, they generally require manufacturers to make diagnostic and repair information, as well as genuine parts and tools, available to the public at fair and reasonable prices. This includes access to service manuals, schematics, and software updates necessary for effective repairs. The laws aim to address concerns that manufacturers often restrict access to these resources, effectively monopolizing the repair market and driving up costs for consumers.

The right-to-repair movement argues that these restrictions not only harm consumers but also contribute to environmental waste by encouraging the disposal of devices that could be easily repaired. By extending the lifespan of electronics and equipment, right-to-repair advocates believe that these laws can help reduce e-waste and promote a more sustainable economy.

Companies that stand to gain from restricting access to repair resources have largely opposed the right-to-repair movement. They argue that allowing unauthorized repairs could compromise product safety, intellectual property, and cybersecurity. Some manufacturers have also expressed concerns that independent repair shops may not have the expertise or training to properly repair complex devices, potentially leading to further damage or safety hazards.

Despite this opposition, the right-to-repair movement has gained momentum in recent years, fueled by growing consumer awareness and increasing concerns about sustainability. Repair advocates are planning to continue their push into 2026 and beyond, applying pressure to legislators in an attempt to give consumers more options when it comes to repairing their devices. The focus will be on expanding right-to-repair laws to more states and addressing specific issues such as software locks and parts pairing, which can prevent independent repairs even when parts are available.