Two agricultural equipment specific bills have been introduced in the Tennessee legislature, HB 432 and SB 499, in the House and Senate, respectively. They are sponsored by Representative Justin Jones and Senator Sara Kyle, who sponsored similar legislation last year. Both bills have been filed for introduction, but the text of them has not been made available yet. Despite that, NAEDA suspects they will be similar if not identical to the legislation introduced in 2024 by these legislators. NAEDA assessed those bills to be problematic due to their price-fixing mandates and requirements for Original Equipment Manufacturers to provide access to digital locks.
NAEDA has requested both bill sponsors reconsider supporting this type of legislation targeting the agricultural equipment industry. We have also pointed out that almost all states with Right to Repair laws are either narrowly focused on consumer electronics, wheelchairs, or similar products. In states where a broader definition has been applied, our industry has been exempt.
We will continue to monitor this legislation and send you additional legislative alerts if there is movement or if we assess that your engagement would be beneficial. We have provided links to the bills and sponsors webpages for your convenience. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this with NAEDA, please contact our Director of Government Affairs, Kipp McGuire, at kmcguire@naeda.com.
