Texas is getting ready to take a major step in consumer rights and environmental reform with the potential enactment of a new right to repair law. House Bill 2963, which cleared the Texas Senate with a rare unanimous 31-0 vote, would require manufacturers to provide access to tools, parts, and manuals necessary for repairing electronic devices and other equipment sold or used in the state.
If Governor Greg Abbott signs the bill into law, Texas would become the ninth U.S. state—and notably, the first Republican-led one—to implement a right to repair rule that includes consumer electronics. The move would put Texas in line with a growing national effort to make repairing devices more accessible and to reduce electronic waste.
What the Bill Requires
HB 2963 mandates that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) must provide the same diagnostic tools, repair instructions, and replacement parts to consumers and independent repair shops that are currently available only to authorized service providers. While it covers a broad range of equipment, the law is particularly significant for consumer electronics, which have become increasingly difficult and expensive to fix due to software locks and proprietary parts.
For years, advocates of the right to repair movement have argued that companies make it intentionally difficult for consumers to fix their own devices, often forcing them to seek costly manufacturer-approved repairs or replace products entirely. This bill directly challenges that status quo.
A Win for Consumers and the Environment
Supporters say the measure could help Texans save money and reduce the need to replace otherwise functional devices. It could also lead to broader environmental gains by cutting down on the amount of electronic waste generated in the state each year.
Texas produces about 621,000 tons of electronic waste annually, according to Environment Texas. That waste is often laced with toxic materials that can harm ecosystems and public health if not properly handled. Luke Metzger, executive director of Environment Texas, hailed the bill as a practical step toward curbing this issue.
“More repair means less waste,” Metzger said. “Texas produces some 621,000 tons of electronic waste per year, which creates an expensive and toxic mess. Now, thanks to this bipartisan win, Texans can fix that.”
Tech Industry Response and Shifting Policies
The tech industry has traditionally resisted right to repair laws, citing concerns over safety, intellectual property protection, and device security. However, growing consumer and regulatory pressure has begun to shift corporate policies. In recent years, companies like Apple and Samsung have introduced limited self-repair programs, allowing consumers in select areas to purchase parts and access repair guides for certain devices.
Still, critics argue that these voluntary programs fall short and lack the legal backing needed to ensure long-term access and fairness. That’s where legislation like HB 2963 steps in, establishing clear requirements and enforceable obligations for manufacturers.
While the Texas bill doesn’t yet outline specific penalties for non-compliance, it sets the stage for oversight that could be refined through future amendments or administrative rules.
Bipartisan Momentum in a Deep-Red State
The unanimous passage of HB 2963 in the Texas Senate is a notable milestone for a cause that has typically been led by Democratic lawmakers and progressive advocacy groups. With a Republican-controlled legislature and governor’s office, Texas stands out among the other states that have adopted similar laws—including California, New York, and Minnesota.
The U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), a long-time champion of right to repair policies, applauded the Texas Legislature’s bipartisan approach. In a press release, PIRG emphasized that Texas’s involvement sends a powerful message about the growing support for consumer repair rights across the political spectrum.
“This legislation brings meaningful change to one of the country’s largest and most influential states,” PIRG said. “As more states pass similar laws, major tech companies are starting to shift their policies to allow easier repair access.”
With legislative approval complete, the future of the bill now rests with Governor Abbott. If he signs it into law, Texas will join a growing number of states committed to giving people more control over the products they buy.
