Policy Impact Analysis - 117/HR/6570

Bill Overview

Title: REPAIR Act.

Description: This bill requires a motor vehicle manufacturer to provide to a vehicle's owner certain direct, real-time, in-vehicle data generated by the operation of the vehicle that is related to diagnostics, repair, service, wear, and calibration or recalibration of parts and systems of the vehicle. Specifically, a vehicle manufacturer may not impair an owner's access to such vehicle-generated data or impair an aftermarket parts manufacturer from producing or offering compatible aftermarket parts. A manufacturer also must make available to the vehicle's owner, and designees, vehicle-generated data through a standardized access platform. Outside of a recall, a manufacturer may not mandate or recommend the use of a particular brand or manufacturer of parts, tools, or equipment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration must issue standards for access to vehicle data through the standardized access platform. The Federal Trade Commission must establish an advisory committee to assess and report on existing and emerging barriers to vehicle repair and vehicle owners' control over their vehicle-generated data. This bill provides authority for the commission to enforce these requirements.

Sponsors: Rep. Rush, Bobby L. [D-IL-1]

Target Audience

Population: People impacted by access to vehicle-generated repair data legislation

Estimated Size: 250000000

• The bill affects individuals who own or operate motor vehicles in terms of data access for repair and diagnostics.
• Globally, there are over 1.4 billion vehicles, with vehicle ownership common in both industrialized and developing regions.
• The average household vehicle ownership varies significantly by country. In the U.S., it’s approximately 2 vehicles per household.
• The bill will mostly impact drivers as it addresses access to vehicle repair data, an essential aspect for vehicle maintenance and repair.
• Vehicle repair and maintenance are common needs that involve both private individuals and commercial transportation operators.

Reasoning

• The REPAIR Act is expected to provide more autonomy to vehicle owners by allowing them access to their vehicle data, potentially resulting in decreased repair costs and increased choice in repair services.
• Not all vehicle owners will utilize this data access equally; some may not be interested or informed enough to change their repair habits.
• Commercial and private vehicle operators will be affected differently, with commercial operators potentially seeing greater cost savings due to larger vehicle fleets.
• The policy budget suggests a widespread implementation, aiming to affect a substantial portion of the 290 million vehicles in the U.S.
• By enforcing the act, the FTC aims to reduce monopolistic practices by car manufacturers, which may lead to market competition and price benefits for consumers.

Simulated Interviews

Cost Estimates

Key Considerations

• Manufacturers may incur additional compliance costs, potentially passed on to consumers if not monitored.
• Data privacy concerns could arise from wider access to vehicle-generated data, necessitating clear regulatory frameworks.
• Potential legal challenges from manufacturers or industry groups could affect implementation timelines.
• Consumer advocacy and repair shops are likely to support the bill, providing strong public backing.