Colorado Becomes First State to Pass "Right to Repair" Law for Farmers

Apr 28, 2023

On Tuesday, Colorado became the first state in the U.S. to pass a "right to repair" law that ensures farmers have the ability to fix their own equipment. The law forces manufacturers to provide farmers with the necessary manuals, tools, parts, and software. At least 10 other states have introduced similar legislation, including Florida, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Texas, and Vermont.
Farmers across the country have been calling for the right to repair their equipment for years, as they often have to wait for services to arrive when machines break down, which can result in crop losses or missed planting windows.

Manufacturers and dealerships had opposed the legislation, citing concerns that providing information and tools to farmers could lead to safety and environmental risks. They also argued that the law would expose trade secrets.

Supporters of the law acknowledged that it could make it easier for operators to modify horsepower and emissions controls but argued that farmers are already able to tinker with their machines and doing so would remain illegal.

The "right to repair" campaign has been gaining momentum across the country, with similar legislation being introduced for a range of products, from iPhones to hospital ventilators. In 2014, the automotive industry signed a memorandum of understanding that gave independent mechanics and car owners access to tools and parts. Two years ago, President Joe Biden directed the Federal Trade Commission to increase its right-to-repair enforcement.

Video: Precision Planting DuraWear

Struggling with inconsistent planting depth from row to row? The new DuraWear Depth Handle from Precision Planting is designed to eliminate depth variability and make accurate calibration easier than ever.

In this video, Precision Planting’s Mike Schlitt walks through how the Dura Aware system helps growers achieve consistent, repeatable planting depth—without relying on guesswork or constantly checking T-handle positions.

What You’ll Learn:

— Why row-to-row depth variation impacts emergence and yield
— How the DuraWear Depth Handle allows micro-adjustments on each row
— How the system keeps every row in the same notch setting, even after calibration
— And more!

Whether you're dialing in your planter for spring or upgrading your setup for more precise depth control, the DuraWear Depth Handle gives you clarity, confidence, and consistency.