WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 279

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 23 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE DELAWARE MARINE EQUIPMENT RIGHT TO REPAIR ACT.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Collins and 8 co-sponsors

HB 279 modifies Delaware's marine equipment right-to-repair law to expand consumer and independent repair access for boat owners and marine service providers.

Introduced and Assigned to Transportation Committee in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 279

Legislative bill overview

HB 279 amends Delaware's marine equipment right to repair law under Title 23 of the Delaware Code. The bill appears to modify or expand existing right-to-repair protections specifically for marine equipment, though the specific amendments are not detailed in the available information. This legislation falls within a broader national movement to establish consumer and independent repair rights.

Why is this important

Marine equipment represents a significant investment for boat owners, commercial fisheries, and marine businesses in Delaware. Right-to-repair provisions affect whether owners and independent repair shops can service, maintain, and fix equipment versus being forced to use manufacturer-authorized services, which impacts repair costs, competition, and equipment access for consumers.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer intellectual property concerns: Equipment manufacturers may argue that opening repair access compromises proprietary technology, software security, and warranty integrity
  • Safety and liability standards: Questions about whether independent repairs meet safety standards for marine equipment operating in water environments, where failures carry safety risks
  • Scope clarity: The specific definitions of what equipment qualifies, which parties gain repair rights, and how diagnostic access is managed could create implementation disputes between manufacturers, dealers, and independent repair providers

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

Sign in to ask a question.