HB 22-1031 Summary

• Requires powered wheelchair manufacturers to provide documentation, parts, embedded software, firmware, and tools to independent repair providers and owners at fair and reasonable costs.

• Defines "fair and reasonable" as terms equivalent to those offered to authorized repair providers, with costs no greater than manufacturer's suggested retail price; documentation must be provided at no charge except for actual printing costs.

• Allows manufacturers to redact trade secrets from documentation or withhold trade secret information if the usability for repair services is not diminished, and permits secure release systems for security-related functions.

• Exempts manufacturers from liability for faulty repairs performed by independent repair providers or owners, including any resulting damage or reduced functionality.

• Classifies violations as unfair or deceptive trade practices; voids any contract terms entered after the effective date that waive or restrict manufacturer obligations; effective January 1, 2023, subject to voter approval if a referendum petition is filed.