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Bill

LC 3252

Define right to repair and ownership of data collected laws

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill died in process that would have defined consumer right to repair owned products and established data ownership protections for collected device information.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 3252

Legislative bill overview

LC 3252 would establish legal definitions and protections regarding consumers' right to repair products they own and their ownership rights over data those products collect. The bill appears designed to limit manufacturer restrictions on repairs and establish consumer data ownership principles in Montana law.

Why is this important

Right-to-repair laws directly affect consumer costs and manufacturer business models—allowing independent repairs typically costs less than authorized service but reduces manufacturer revenue and control over products. Data ownership clarity matters as connected devices increasingly collect personal information, and current law often leaves ambiguous who controls that data and how it can be used.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer opposition: Device makers argue repair restrictions protect intellectual property, safety standards, and prevent counterfeit parts; they may lobby against expansive definitions
  • Data ownership scope: Defining "data ownership" is technically complex—questions arise about aggregated vs. individual data, who can access it, and whether companies can still monetize anonymized datasets
  • Implementation burden: Small manufacturers and retailers may face compliance costs interpreting vague standards, potentially raising product prices or limiting market entry
  • Conflict with federal law: Patent and copyright frameworks may create tension with state-level repair rights, creating legal uncertainty

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

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