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Committee backs powered-wheelchair "right to repair" bill after disabled advocates describe long delays
Summary
Senate Bill 412 would require manufacturers to make repair manuals, diagnostic tools, and parts available to wheelchair owners and independent repair providers under fair terms. Disability advocates and users testified that repair waits can last weeks to months and that expanded repair options could restore mobility faster.
The Commerce and Tourism Committee reported favorably on SB 412, the motorized-wheelchair right-to-repair bill, after advocates and users described long repair waits and safety risks from extended downtime.
Bill summary - SB 412 requires manufacturers to make repair manuals, diagnostic tools, and parts available to powered wheelchair owners and independent repair providers on fair and reasonable terms. The sponsor said the bill will open the repair market beyond exclusive authorized-repair providers and is enforceable under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
Testimony and concerns - Laura Lee Minutello of Disability Rights Florida, who identifies as a power-chair user, told senators that a control box failure can leave users unable to leave home for weeks. She cited a case of a user who waited six months for a seat-belt repair. - JJ Holmes and Allison Holmes gave user testimony about repairs delayed for months; Holmes said many repairs are held up by supply and monopoly issues and urged the committee to approve the bill. - Disability Rights Florida said it supports the bill but raised concerns about independent-provider availability and accountability; it noted other states are pursuing pilot incentives for independent repair providers and that additional safeguards may be needed to ensure providers are willing to enter the market and that manufacturers remain accountable for major repairs.
Sponsor remarks and vote - Sen. Smith said the bill would not solve every problem but would increase consumer choice, reduce delays and lower costs by opening the market to more repair providers. The committee reported the bill favorably on roll call.
Context A 2022 survey by PIRG referenced in the staff analysis found 93 percent of wheelchair users needed at least one repair in the last year and 62 percent said repairs took four or more weeks. Supporters said the bill aims to reduce downtime that can strand users and interrupt work and daily life.
Provenance: Testimony and the sponsor's explanation and staff-analysis references are recorded in the hearing transcript near tab 6.
