AAIA Shows Support for Oklahoma Right to Repair Act

BETHESDA, Md., Feb. 8, 2007; The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) expressed its strong support for the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (H.B. 1584), which was introduced in the Oklahoma legislature by Democratic Representative Lucky Lamons.

"Passage of H.B. 1584 should be a number one priority for both Oklahoma's independent aftermarket and car owners," said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO, AAIA. "The extensive use of computers and electronics on vehicles has provided increased safety and convenience for motorists, but it also has provided car companies with the ability to restrict access to the tools and information needed by technicians to repair these high-tech vehicles. Left unbridled, the failure of the manufacturers to share critical information and tools will translate into increased repair costs and less convenience for motorists. The citizens of Oklahoma deserve the right to determine who will repair their vehicle and not have that choice dictated by the vehicle manufacturer."

H.B. 1584 would mandate that the car companies provide the independent service industry with access to the same information and tools that they provide to their franchised new car dealers.

"The Oklahoma bill strikes an important balance between preserving competition in the state's repair industry and providing strong protections for the car company's legitimate intellectual property rights," said Aaron Lowe, vice president for government affairs, AAIA. "Although AAIA continues to strongly push for a national solution to this Right to Repair issue, car company and new car dealer opposition means that every avenue must be pursued to ensure a level playing field in the vehicle repair aftermarket. AAIA looks forward to working with Oklahoma's aftermarket groups and motoring public to help move H.B. 1584 toward passage as soon as practically possible."

About AAIA

AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 8,000 member companies and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tools, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.