In a significant move for consumer rights, Texas has become the first Republican-led state to enact a “Right to Repair” law for consumer electronics. Governor Abbott signed HB 2963 into law on June 20, 2025, marking a major milestone in the growing right-to-repair movement. The law, takes effect on September 1, 2026 and requires manufacturers to provide replacement parts, tools, and repair documentation for devices priced over $50. This legislation aims to empower Texans to repair their own devices and reduce reliance on manufacturers for costly repairs.
Key Provisions of HB 2963
The new law applies to a wide range of consumer electronics, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. However, it excludes certain categories such as medical devices, farm equipment, large industrial machinery, motor vehicles, and video game consoles. Manufacturers are mandated to provide repair materials on fair and reasonable terms, ensuring accessibility for both consumers and independent repair shops.
Unanimous Bipartisan Support
What sets this legislation apart is the overwhelming bipartisan support it received. The Texas House passed the bill with a unanimous 126-0 vote, followed by a 31-0 vote in the Senate. This level of consensus underscores the widespread recognition of the need for right-to-repair laws, even in a politically divided landscape. The unanimous support mirrors similar trends seen internationally, such as the European Parliament’s overwhelming approval of right-to-repair rules in 2024.
Addressing E-Waste and Consumer Empowerment
One of the primary goals of the law is to reduce electronic waste (e-waste) by making repairs more accessible and affordable. By enabling consumers and independent repair shops to fix devices, the legislation aims to extend the lifespan of electronics and reduce the environmental impact of discarded devices. This aligns with a broader global effort to combat e-waste, which continues to rise at alarming rates.
Challenges and Limitations
While the law is a step forward, it is not without its limitations. Critics have pointed out the exclusion of certain categories, such as video game consoles and medical devices, which remain significant areas of concern. Additionally, the issue of “parts pairing,” where manufacturers use software to restrict the use of non-manufacturer parts, may still pose challenges for independent repairs. However, the law’s provisions could pave the way for addressing these issues in future legislation.
A Growing National Trend
Texas joins a small but growing group of states, including Oregon and California, that have enacted right-to-repair laws. This movement reflects a broader shift toward consumer empowerment and sustainability. Despite resistance from manufacturers, who often cite cost and intellectual property concerns, the momentum for right-to-repair legislation is building across the United States and beyond.
Looking Ahead
The passage of HB 2963 is a landmark achievement for Texas and the right-to-repair movement. By granting consumers greater control over their devices, the law not only promotes sustainability but also challenges the status quo of planned obsolescence. As more states consider similar legislation, Texas’s bold step could serve as a blueprint for future efforts to ensure that consumers have the tools and resources they need to repair their own property.
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