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HB 813

Provide for the agricultural emissions right to repair act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tom France

Montana bill grants farmers legal right to repair agricultural equipment independently or through non-authorized shops, challenging manufacturer repair monopolies.

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Bill Summary · HB 813

Legislative bill overview

HB 813 would establish a "right to repair" framework specifically for agricultural equipment, allowing farmers to repair their own machinery or use independent repair shops rather than being restricted to manufacturer-authorized dealers. The bill aims to address concerns about equipment monopolies and repair cost barriers in the agricultural sector.

Why is this important

Farmers often face significant repair costs and downtime when equipment malfunctions, as manufacturers increasingly use software locks and proprietary parts to restrict repairs. Enabling independent repair access could reduce operational costs, increase equipment uptime, and enhance farmer autonomy—particularly important for smaller agricultural operations with tight margins.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturer liability concerns: Equipment makers argue that unauthorized repairs could create safety hazards, void warranties, and create liability exposure if improperly repaired machinery causes injury or damage
  • Intellectual property and software protection: Manufacturers contend that providing repair access compromises trade secrets, proprietary diagnostic software, and anti-theft/security features embedded in modern farm equipment
  • Implementation complexity: Defining which repairs qualify, establishing safety standards for independent technicians, and determining parts availability creates regulatory and enforcement challenges

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

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