HR 906, the REPAIR Act, is the ultimate game-changer, packing bipartisan muscle with 56 cosponsors split between Republicans and Democrats. This badass legislation fights to keep your ride—be it a car or a motorcycle—on the road without draining your wallet. It makes sure you and your local bike shop have full access to all the parts, tools, and data needed for any repair job.
Since November, Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02) has been wrangling the bill’s details, trying to yank motorcycles out of the legislation. But the AMA, backed by Reps. Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Troy Balderson (R-OH-12), fought tooth and nail to keep motorcycles in the mix, making sure every bike-related provision stayed solid in the proposed bill.
“All language regarding motorcycles must remain in the REPAIR Act, and thanks to the work done by Reps. Dunn, Walberg and Balderson, and their willingness to work with the AMA on this issue, motorcycles remain at the forefront of conversations surrounding the right to repair. This bill could have immense implications for the future of motorcycling, and we continue to support all efforts to allow motorcyclists to repair their vehicles as they see fit.”
AMA Government Relations Director Nick Haris
How the REPAIR Act Hits Motorcycles:
- Inclusion of Motorcycles: The REPAIR Act makes sure bikes are in the mix. That means all the access to diagnostic data, repair manuals, tools, and parts that cars and trucks get also applies to your ride.
- Consumer Rights for Motorcycle Owners: Forget being stuck with dealer-only repair shops. This act gives you the freedom to take your bike to any mechanic, saving you cash and hassle.
- Access to Diagnostic Data and Repair Information: Independent motorcycle shops get the same diagnostic and repair data that the big dealers do. So, no more getting screwed over by lack of info—your local shop can handle even the most high-tech fixes.
- Promoting Fair Competition: By leveling the playing field, the REPAIR Act makes sure independent shops can compete with authorized dealers. This means better, high-quality repair options for you.
- Impact on Aftermarket Parts: The act supports the aftermarket scene by ensuring independent shops get the info they need to install and service these parts right. More affordable options and a wider range of parts for your bike.
- Support and Innovation in Motorcycle Repairs: With access to all the tech info, independent shops can innovate like never before. They can develop new tools and methods, making bike maintenance and repairs better and more efficient.
- Advocacy and Opposition: The REPAIR Act has backing from consumer groups, independent shops, and some legislators who dig consumer choice and fair competition. But don’t be surprised if motorcycle manufacturers and their dealers push back, worried about security and IP risks.
In short, if the REPAIR Act passes, it’s going to shake up the motorcycle repair world big time. Independent shops will get the same diagnostic and repair info as the big dealers, giving you more options and sparking fierce competition and innovation in the market.
Here’s a full rundown of 30 US States that have introduced or carries over these bills into 2024 Click this LINK
– Camille
