From Cell Phones to Tractors: The Right to Repair Movement Drives On

Regulatory Oversight Podcast

In this episode of Regulatory Oversight, Stephen Piepgrass is joined by colleagues Brad Weber and Christy Matelis from the firm's Antitrust Practice Group to explore the evolving landscape of right-to-repair laws across the United States.

The discussion delves into the complexities of the right-to-repair movement, highlighting the patchwork nature of state laws and the absence of a national framework. Christy outlines the consumer-driven push for the ability to repair and modify products ranging from cell phones to agricultural equipment, while Brad explains the role of federal statutes like the FTC Act and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in shaping corporate compliance. The conversation touches on significant legal cases, such as the ongoing litigation involving John Deere, which underscores the tension between consumer rights and corporate interests. As state attorneys general become increasingly active in this space, the podcast concludes by examining the potential for bipartisan support and the implications of tariffs on consumer behavior.