LD 1977 seeks to mandate manufacturers of devices and equipment to provide coding and repair information to uncertified repair shops or individuals

Allowing uncertified entities to repair products could pose safety risk to consumers
 
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following testimony was delivered by Megan Diver on behalf of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce in opposition of LD 1977, An Act To Ensure A Consumer's Right To Repair Certain Electronic Products, on Thursday, January 23, 2020, before the Joint Standing Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business. We have reprinted it here for your review.
 
Senator Herbig, Representative Daughtry, distinguished members of the Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business (IDEA) committee: I am Megan Diver, senior government relations specialist at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, a statewide business association representing both large and small businesses across the state. The Chamber supports policies and priorities that help Maine businesses prosper and our economy flourish to make Maine as competitive as possible. 

The Chamber opposes LD 1977, which would mandate businesses that manufacture devices and equipment to provide coding and repair information for their products to uncertified repair shops or individuals.
       
The Chamber represents many businesses who develop products and services for a wide range of individual consumers and businesses. Consumers rely on these products to operate safely, securely, and accurately, whether they are being used for personal or business use. With today’s modern and evolving technology, we are all more reliable on technology devices and equipment. It’s important to remain conscious about the safety and security of these products.
       
LD 1977 does not consider the complexities of the products in question. The manufacturers are certified and have warranties on their products. Allowing anyone to repair products who is uncertified isn’t fair to the companies who are certified and could pose a safety risk to consumers, especially when individuals purchase third party components for their repairs. By making repair information publicly accessible, consumers are more likely to attempt repairs on their own and to be left exposed to risks of injuries and property damage. Additionally, by providing every consumer and nonauthorized repair facility with the same information as authorized service providers, without the requisite training and certification, the facility can offer services of sub-standard quality insufficient to maintain the reputational value of the product.
       
In addition, this legislation creates privacy and security concerns. The security of user information on these products is important. Allowing anyone who is not certified or trained to repair products you would weaken the privacy and security protections of those products and create risks for consumers. For these reasons the Chamber urges the committee to oppose LD 1977. Thank you.
               
If you have further questions about LD 1977, please contact Megan Diver by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 108, or by emailing mdiver@mainechamber.org.