A judge has blocked the final challenge to the Massachusetts”Right to Repair,” ending a protracted legal battle that was initiated when automaker connected groups sought to overturn a ballot initiative dating back to 2020.

The 2020 Massachusetts Data Access Law was intended to allow consumers to determine who could access repair information for their vehicles, effectively removing impediments to repairing vehicles in the aftermarket..

However that measure was quickly opposed by a group calling itself  Alliance for Automotive Innovation which argued, among other issues, that the measure provided unfettered access to individuals privacy, endangering drivers, and also that it was practically unenforceable and in ways unconstitutional.

The judge’s dismissal of their argument effectively puts an end to the blocking of implementation of the rule in Massachusetts, although the group has vowed to fight on.

It is also notable that the same group has filed a similar suit in Maine where a similar Right to Repair initiative is also in place.

The U.S.based Auto Care Association called the victory significant.

Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association said “This decision by Judge Casper ensures that car owners have the right to access their vehicle’s repair and diagnostic data, empowering them to make informed choices about maintenance and repairs.

“It levels the playing field, allowing independent repair shops to compete fairly, which in turn drives down costs for consumers. As car owners, we all deserve the freedom to control and manage the data that’s generated by our own vehicles. This ruling is a crucial step toward fostering greater transparency, affordability, and innovation in the automotive industry for the benefit of all Americans.” 

In Canada, there were recent wins in changes to copyright laws that will lay the foundation for Right to Repair legislation.

Find our more at RighttoRepair.ca