Alaska Senate Passes Right to Repair Bill for Consumer Electronics

The Alaska Senate passed legislation May 11, 2026, requiring manufacturers to provide documentation, tools, and parts needed to repair consumer electronics to owners and independent repair technicians, according to a press release from the Alaska Senate Majority.

Senate Bill 111, sponsored by Sen. Forrest Dunbar of Anchorage, establishes a right to repair for consumer electronics in Alaska.

"This bill rests on a commonsense idea: that when you buy something, you should own it and have the right to work on it as you choose," Dunbar said. "Unfortunately, this idea has been increasingly violated by certain out-of-state consumer technology and manufacturing companies."

According to the release, manufacturers currently withhold repair information and use proprietary tools, forcing consumers to pay inflated prices for official repairs or to replace the equipment entirely. Software and internet connectivity have allowed manufacturers to restrict device use, charge subscription fees for hardware features already purchased, prevent part replacement, and remotely disable devices to compel consumers to buy newer models, the release states.

The legislation protects affordable and open access to parts, tools, and documentation necessary to repair consumer electronics. The bill aims to empower consumers to extend device life, reduce electronic waste, and save money.

More than 1,000 Alaska residents signed petitions and sent postcards urging passage of the bill. Repair technicians testified before Senate committees in favor of the legislation.

"While the scope of SB 111 has been narrowed, the original goal remains the same: giving Alaskans greater ability to repair the products they own, supporting small businesses, and keeping more money in Alaskans' pockets," said Rep. Maxine Dibert of Fairbanks, sponsor of the House companion to Senate Bill 111. "This bill also helps reduce electronic waste and keeps toxic materials out of landfills across our state, preserving our waters and lands for future generations."

In testimony on related legislation, Dibert described Alaska's unique repair challenges. "In Alaska, it's a real barrier. Because of our geography, authorized repair providers are often hundreds or even thousands of miles away," she said. "Shipping products out for repair can be expensive. It could be time-consuming and sometimes not realistic."

Dibert sponsors House Bill 162, which addresses similar right to repair issues for digital products.

Senate Bill 111 adds violations to the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act. The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

The Senate Labor and Commerce Committee referred the bill with a do pass recommendation April 9, 2025.