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Committee tables bill to expand wheelchair users’ access to repair tools, parts and documentation
Summary
House Bill 828, which would require manufacturers to make documentation, parts and diagnostic tools available to wheelchair users and independent repair providers, drew support from disability-rights and independent-living advocates and opposition from medical-equipment suppliers and insurers; the committee tabled the bill.
The House Business and Labor Committee tabled House Bill 828, a proposal to guarantee powered wheelchair users and independent repair providers access to parts, documentation and repair tools. Sponsor Representative Zoe Zephyr said the bill is meant to protect mobility and independence for Montanans who rely on powered wheelchairs.
"Powered wheelchairs are not like someone's shoes. They are their legs," Representative Zephyr told the committee. The bill would require original equipment manufacturers to provide documentation, parts and tools and, in specific situations, to make access available for security locks used to protect diagnostic interfaces. It also includes a clause protecting trade secrets and intellectual property from compelled disclosure.
Proponents included disability-rights…
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