California's right to repair bill is now law, so don't toss that 'old' device just yet
California, the largest state in the USA and home to many of the world's largest tech companies, is a step closer to giving residents the right to repair their devices and appliances after Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law.
The SB-244 Right to Repair Act is set to come into effect on July 1, 2024, and it covers devices made after July 1, 2021. So don't toss that old phone just yet! It's long been championed by iFixit, the CALPIRG (the California Public Interest Research Group), and Californians Against Waste. It requires manufacturers to provide appropriate tools, parts and diagnostic software support for devices for up to seven years if the item costs more than $100. Devices that cost between $50 and $99.99 are required to have three years of support.
According to CALPIRG, parts examples include phone screens and more easily accessible batteries. Currently, it's easier to break into Fort Knox than it is to open many phone cases. Tool examples include specialty screwdrivers and pairing software that allows new parts to be installed.
The law is expected to provide a welcome boost for local repair stores. This competition is sure to lower costs as consumers will no longer be forced to visit expensive authorized repair centers.
Alongside the financial benefits, the bill will reduce electronic waste. If a device can be repaired, you won't need to throw it away, especially if the point of failure is something as simple as replacing a battery. It will also reduce demand for environmentally unfriendly and unsustainable manufacturing by reducing demand.
On a related note, Google has announced it will extend Chromebook support up to 10 years beginning in 2024. This will benefit organizations like schools, removing
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