By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
Maine voters have overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure
requiring automakers to standardize vehicle onboard diagnostic systems and make them remotely accessible to owners and independent repair shops. The initiative, which will go into effect in 2024, requires automakers producing vehicles that include a telematics system to offer an owner-authorized access platform so that owners can access their vehicle's mechanical data through a mobile app. The measure also requires vehicle manufacturers to give vehicle owners and independent repair shops the same access to diagnostic tools that they provide to their authorized dealers and service centers.
The measure, which passed with support from 84% of voters, is part of a larger national movement to ensure that consumers and independent repair shops have the right to repair their vehicles. SEMA and our coalition partners are advocating for Congress to pass H.R. 906, the "Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act," a bipartisan bill that would ensure automotive enthusiasts, aftermarket parts manufacturers and repair shops have access to the information and tools needed to maintain and personalize vehicles as automotive technology evolves. The U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce recently passed the REPAIR Act, which is now eligible for consideration by the Energy & Commerce Committee.
SEMA is advocating for the REPAIR Act to be expanded to ensure it protects the right to modify motor vehicles. More details can be found at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair.
Click here to send a letter to your U.S. Representative asking them to support and expand the REPAIR Act to protect our right to modify vehicles.
For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org or visit sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair.