Weekly Legislative Update
November 13, 2023

Right to Repair Passed by Congressional Subcommittee- Huge Step in TIA's Efforts

The REPAIR Act, which would give vehicle owners the right to repair their cars where and how they like, was unanimously approved by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce on Thursday, November 2nd.

TIA is a strong supporter of the legislation, and we continue to work on adding co-sponsors to the bill.

Maine Voters Overwhelming Approve TIA Supported Right to Repair

Maine voters decided "yes" to Question 4, allowing local repair shops and mechanics access to the same data as dealerships. 

The ballot read: Do you want to require vehicle manufacturers to standardize on-board diagnostic systems and provide remote access to those systems and mechanical data to owners and independent repair facilities?

A "yes" vote allows all mechanical information about a vehicle to be made available beyond dealerships regarding things like being able to diagnose and repair vehicles along with regular maintenance issues. 

The Maine initiative was spurred by a group of independent auto repair shop owners and other right to repair proponents through a citizens’ petition of over 70,000 signatures presented to the Maine Secretary of State’s Office.

Opposition to Question 4 primarily came from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a trade group representing car manufacturers like General Motors, Ford, Subaru, and Toyota.

Locally, Question 4 was also opposed by the Maine Automobile Dealers Association, a group representing franchised new car and truck dealers.

Over 84% of voters supported the measure. 

TIA supported the efforts and will work towards enacting the new law.