FTC Seeks Comment on Potential Right to Repair-Related Rule

The FTC is seeking public comment on a proposal to update the Energy Labeling Rule and require manufacturers to provide consumers with repair instructions. It’s “vital” for the agency to use every tool available to “vindicate Americans’ right to repair their own products,” Chair Lina Khan said in a statement, calling it a continuation from the FTC’s July 2021 policy statement on right to repair (see 2107210061). The agency is exploring whether consumer and independent repair shops would benefit from having repair information “more widely available on energy labels,” said Khan. This could have implications for everything from televisions and washing machines to air conditioners and water heaters, she said. The commission voted 5-0 approving publication of an Advance NPRM. Commissioner Christine Wilson advocated for reviewing the labeling rule's “more prescriptive aspects,” such as highly specific requirements for the presentation of the labels.