The fix inches closer: Iowa moves farm right-to-repair bill forward
The Register
February 24, 2026
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The Iowa House committee has advanced a right-to-repair bill that could give farmers easier access to tools and software for repairing their tractors. This development is significant, as it aims to reduce costs and downtime for farmers who often rely on expensive, software-driven equipment. Currently, manufacturers like John Deere restrict access to proprietary diagnostic tools, forcing many farmers to depend on authorized dealers for repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming. Supporters of the bill argue that it would allow independent mechanics and farmers to diagnose and fix issues more efficiently, potentially saving thousands of dollars annually.
The right-to-repair movement has gained momentum in recent years, particularly among farmers who operate on tight margins. Proponents say that bills like Iowa's HSB 751 are designed to remove barriers that prevent independent repair shops from accessing the tools they need to fix equipment. This is especially critical for farmers in Iowa,
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Originally published on The Register on 2/24/2026