Fix it, don’t toss it: NDP calls on Ford to pass Right to Repair legislation

QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP MPPs Tom Rakocevic (Humber River—Black Creek), John Vanthof (Timiskaming—Cochrane), and Terence Kernaghan (London North Centre) say it’s time for the Ford government to stand up for consumers, and pass Bill 91, Right to Repair Act, 2025.

“In a world of glued-on batteries and digital locks, things these days are designed for the dump,” said Rakocevic. “People are tired of being forced to buy new products when their things could easily be repaired. This bill will force manufacturers to rethink how they design and build things from the start. The Conservatives should pass it to protect consumers and the environment.”

“Gone are the days when companies cared about their customers,” said Kernaghan. “What we’re left with is a disposable culture where basic repairs are difficult because operational mechanics are proprietary and/or hidden by design. Bill 91 is an opportunity for the Ford government to show they care about keeping money in Ontarians’ pockets.”

“Farmers are at the mercy of dealers for costly repairs, sometimes jeopardizing the timing of their harvests,” added Vanthof. “This can lead to waste, and higher food prices. Bill 91 would not only benefit farmers by allowing them to make repairs quickly and affordably, but also benefit Ontarians by preventing unnecessary costs from being added to their grocery bills.”

BACKGROUND:

• Bill 91 is an amendment to the Consumer Protection Act, 2023 with respect to consumers’ right to repair certain products.
• It applies with respect to electronic products, household appliances, agricultural equipment, motor vehicles, motorized mobility aids, and recreational motorized vehicles.
• This past weekend, MPP Rakocevic joined the Right to Repair community at a popular Toronto Repair Cafe in Scarborough, seeing first-hand the need for Right to Repair legislation in Ontario.