This morning, FOX News’ America’s Newsroom highlighted Congressional efforts to ensure that Americans struggling with skyrocketing car repair prices have the #RightToRepair how and where they choose.
Watch the full video here and check out excerpts below.
DEFENDING LOCAL AUTO SHOPS: Congress considering a “Right to Repair” law that could even the playing field for local auto shops with large manufacturers. @BillHemmer @JulieBanderas pic.twitter.com/oipUsh9B3v
— America’s Newsroom (@AmericaNewsroom) October 21, 2022
WHAT’S AT STAKE:
“We want to make sure that you, the person who buys an automobile or other product and owns it, has the right to choose where it’s going to be repaired.” – Rep. Darrell Issa, SMART Act Sponsor
WHY IT’S NEEDED:
“[A]mericans need access to that data. … Vehicles today have hundreds of sensors in them and these sensors control the vehicle – and we have to have access to these sensors, and the data that they produce, in order to diagnose and repair vehicles.” – Tim Winkeler, President & CEO of VIP Tires & Service
As Fox News’ correspondent Douglas Kennedy noted, right to repair automotive legislation seeks to address two key problems: 1) data access restrictions, and 2) design patent misuse.
Over the past 20 years, automakers have drastically increased their use of design patents on common car parts, like bumpers and side mirrors, to limit aftermarket parts options and steer consumers to OEM-branded parts. This practice not only unfairly limits consumer choice, but also costs Americans $1.5B per year!
The SMART Act would restore the availability of quality, safe, affordable aftermarket collision repair parts, while the REPAIR Act would protect access to the data, tools, and software necessary for car repairs. Congress is taking a hard look at these solutions – and held two hearings on right to repair just last month. Take action today and tell your member of Congress to support the SMART and REPAIR Acts!
