In a significant win for consumer rights, Colorado has become the sixth US state to enact a “right to repair” law for consumer electronics. The new legislation requires manufacturers to provide consumers and independent repair shops with the necessary parts, software, and documentation to repair devices like smartphones and laptops.
This move aims to make it easier and more affordable for consumers to fix their electronic devices, rather than replacing them entirely. By reducing the number of devices sent to landfills, these laws also help to address the growing issue of electronic waste.
With Colorado’s addition, six states now have right-to-repair laws in place, demonstrating a growing trend towards empowering consumers and promoting sustainability. Similar legislation has also been adopted in the European Union, where it is estimated to save consumers $195 billion and prevent the emission of 18.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide over 15 years.
The passage of these laws is a major victory for consumer advocates who have been fighting for years to give consumers more control over their electronic devices. As more states adopt right-to-repair legislation, the future of electronic repair and disposal is likely to become more consumer-friendly and environmentally sustainable.