Representatives Barney Frank (D-Mass.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Bob Filner (D-Calif.) joined Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) in support of the “Access To Repair Parts Act,” (H.R. 3059), which would create an exception from infringement of design patents for certain component parts used to repair another article of manufacture.
Identical legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) (S.1368).
Supporters of the bill, introduced in 2009, say they’re working to prevent an OEM “monopoly” over the crash parts market.
“This anticompetitive strategy executed by the car companies should be of great concern to the entire motoring public,” said Eileen A. Sottile, executive director, Quality Parts Coalition. “We are pleased that there is a growing movement in Congress to address this issue. We commend Congressman Frank, Congressman Cassidy and Congressman Filner for joining Congresswoman Lofgren and the eight cosponsors of the ‘Access to Repair Parts Act.’ By endorsing this legislation, they are taking a stand to protect consumers at a time when they need it most.”
