Committee hears testimony for bill to extend OregonRight-to-Repair to wheelchairs

Senate Energy and Environment Committee members heard more than a dozen witnesses Feb. 3 supporting Senate Bill 550, which would amend Oregon—s Right to Repair Act to require original equipment manufacturers of electric wheelchairs and complex rehabilitation technology to make parts, tools, diagnostic software and documentation available to wheelchair owners and independent repair providers on fair and reasonable terms.

The bill—s sponsor, Sen. Janine Solmon, told the committee the delay in repairs threatens people—s health, safety and independence. "The problem is Oregonians are waiting too long for costly repairs for their wheelchairs and complex rehabilitation equipment," Solmon said. "This bill is about the health, the safety, and the independence of Oregonians. Colleagues, I urge your support of Senate Bill 550."

Advocates and users gave specific examples and numbers. Charlie Fisher, state director of OSPIRG, cited a national survey showing 93% of respondents needed service in the prior year and 68% waited four weeks or more; some respondents reported waits exceeding 24 weeks. "That…