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Biden to issue executive order giving farmers right-to-repair

President Biden plans to issue an executive order giving farmers the right to repair their own equipment how they like.

Press secretary Jen Psaki says Biden will direct the Department of Agriculture and Federal Trade Commission to engage in a series of rulemakings that increase competition in agricultural industries, boost farmer earnings, and address right-to-repair.

On a call with reporters Wednesday morning, Iowa U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley suggested he’s typically one-sided when it comes to intellectual property rights.

“But when intellectual property rights interfere with your ability to repair your own stuff, if you’re that type of mechanic, you ought to be able to do it.”

Nearly two dozen states took up right-to-repair legislation this year.

In a statement to Brownfield, Association of Equipment Manufacturers state government relations director Stephanie See says equipment manufacturers support a farmers’ right to repair his or her own equipment.  She says the industry provides diagnostic guides, service manuals, and other tools and information for repairs and maintenance.  See says AEM is proud of the work the industry does to protect the planet and safeguard customers’ well-being, and will never compromise on safety and environmental protections.

The White House says the President’s executive order will separately call on USDA to develop rules defining when meat can bear “Product of USA” labels and develop anti-retaliation protections for farmers who raise concerns under the Packers and Stockyards Act.