HB 6702 Summary

• Requires authorized wheelchair dealers to make service calls within three business days of notification that a complex rehabilitation technology wheelchair is inoperable or unsafe, assess needed repairs, and provide immediate repairs if feasible or estimated timeframes if not.

• Mandates manufacturers provide a minimum two-year express warranty on wheelchairs and supply a written statement in 14-point bold capital letters explaining consumer rights to replacement or refund if the wheelchair is defective within the warranty period or two years from delivery, whichever is later.

• Requires manufacturers and dealers to provide temporary loaner wheelchairs at no cost within four business days for inoperable wheelchairs under warranty or lease and cover all collateral costs including rental wheelchairs, shipping, and medical expenses related to wheelchair nonconformity.

• Establishes that if a wheelchair cannot be repaired after two repair attempts or 21 days out of service, the consumer may receive either a replacement wheelchair or a full refund minus reasonable allowance for use.

• Mandates manufacturers and dealers doing business in Connecticut and at least one other state provide 24/7 telephone support and prohibits payors from requiring prior authorization for complex rehabilitation wheelchair repairs.