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SD 1384

An Act expanding wheelchair warranty protections for consumers with disabilities

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands wheelchair warranty requirements to strengthen consumer protections for people with disabilities relying on mobility devices.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 1384

Legislative bill overview

SD 1384 expands warranty protections specifically for wheelchairs, requiring manufacturers and sellers to provide more comprehensive coverage for consumers with disabilities. The bill aims to ensure that wheelchair users have adequate recourse when their mobility devices fail or require repairs, addressing gaps in current consumer protection laws.

Why is this important

Wheelchairs are essential medical devices and mobility aids—not optional consumer goods—making their reliability critical to users' independence, employment, and quality of life. Extended warranty protections reduce out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable consumers who depend entirely on these devices and may face significant hardship if their wheelchair becomes inoperable.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer cost concerns: Wheelchair manufacturers may argue that expanded warranties increase production costs, potentially raising prices for consumers or reducing profit margins in a specialized market
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's specific warranty terms, coverage duration, and what constitutes manufacturer defects versus normal wear-and-tear remain undefined without seeing full legislative language
  • Market impact on smaller companies: Smaller wheelchair manufacturers or sellers may struggle more with compliance costs compared to larger corporations, potentially consolidating the market

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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