By Roy Littlefield
SSDA-AT is showing strong support for HR 906, The Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair Act (REPAIR Act), as prepared for full committee consideration by lead sponsor Dr. Neal Dunn (R-FL). SSDA-AT is asking for passage at the next Energy and Commerce markup.
We applaud and support the efforts of Dr. Dunn to ensure that the concerns raised by members of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce were heard and addressed after the subcommittee markup.
Specifically, Dr. Dunn addressed cybersecurity concerns with the Standardized Access Platform (SAP) by having the necessary vehicle repair data now shared through the already existing Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) dealer and partner network. Further, Dr. Dunn made significant edits related to autonomous vehicles, the use of consumer data, and preemption.
This bipartisan legislation, with more than 50 cosponsors evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats, would preserve consumer access to high quality and affordable vehicle repair by ensuring that vehicle owners and their repairer of choice have equal access to repair and maintenance tools, components, and data.
As vehicle technology continues to evolve and grow more complex, effectively repairing and maintaining cars, buses, and trucks will require access to data, software, compatible replacement components, training, and sophisticated diagnostic tools. The current law is inadequate to address growing competitive concerns created by new technology, and the REPAIR Act would guarantee the right of owners and their designated repair facilities to fully maintain and repair modern vehicles, while ensuring cybersecurity for critical vehicle systems.
Modern vehicles are computers on wheels, with some new vehicles having more than one hundred million lines of code. This innovative technology requires specific parts, manuals, diagnostic tools and more, which, when restricted by the vehicle manufacturer, can eliminate the ability of the more than 150,000 independent repair shops in the United States to compete for this business.
The REPAIR Act allows the vehicle owner the freedom to utilize the most accessible and affordable repair option available. The REPAIR Act protects open competition within the market, which will drive further innovation and create affordable repair options for consumers.