WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1278

An Act relative to wheelchair repair requirements and consumer protection

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 22 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill establishing consumer protections for wheelchair repair services, including warranty requirements and disclosure standards to prevent predatory pricing and unsafe repairs.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4358
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1278

Legislative bill overview

H 1278 establishes consumer protection requirements for wheelchair repair services in Massachusetts, including standards for repairs, warranty provisions, and disclosure requirements. The bill aims to prevent predatory repair practices and ensure wheelchair users have recourse when repairs are inadequate or overpriced.

Why is this important

Wheelchairs are essential mobility devices for disabled individuals, and faulty or unnecessary repairs can be financially devastating and create safety risks. Currently, wheelchair repair services lack standardized oversight, leaving vulnerable consumers without clear protections or regulatory recourse when disputes arise.

Potential points of contention

  • Repair cost thresholds: Defining what constitutes an "excessive" repair charge and whether regulatory limits might reduce service availability or incentivize shops to refuse complex repairs
  • Warranty duration and scope: Balancing consumer protection with business viability—longer warranties may increase repair costs that businesses pass to consumers
  • Definitional ambiguity: Unclear what qualifies as a "repair" versus routine maintenance, potentially creating enforcement and compliance disputes between regulators and repair shops

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

Sign in to ask a question.