Apple is lobbying against California Right to Repair Bill

Apple lobbyist helps push back Right to Repair vote in California

Right to Repair legislation in Apple’s home state of California has been successfully pushed back to at least January 2020. After intervention by an Apple lobbyist, the co-sponsor of the bill pulled it from committee on Tuesday.

“While this was not an easy decision, it became clear that the bill would not have the support it needed today, and manufacturers had sown enough doubt with vague and unbacked claims of privacy and security concerns,” said California Assembly member Susan Talamantes Eggman.

Eggman first introduced the bill in March 2018, and then again in March 2019. The Right to Repair act would compel tech companies to release repair guides and make official parts available to those who want them. This would have many benefits — including reducing the amount of e-waste produced each year year.

I don’t recall“leasing” any Apple hardware. I’m sure I own - as in took possession of - all the Apple hardware I purchased. I don’t recall seeing any language in the hardware manual’s or in the receipt that suggest or indicated that I am not allowed to attempt repair of the product.

There is language in the warrant that suggests that I attempting repair on my own or through a third-party may invalidate the warranty. But that’s my choice if I so choose to invalidate the warranty.

Perhaps California needs to look to the north east for inspiration and guidance.

Author: Khürt Williams

A human who works in information security and enjoys photography, Formula 1 and craft ale. #nobridge