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S. 5497

BillFederalSenateIn Committee
A bill to promote military readiness by ensuring the Department of Defense retains the right to repair equipment it acquires and owns.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · December 12, 2024
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
Congress
118th (2023–2025)
Introduced
December 12, 2024
Cosponsors (0)
None
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Summary

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The Servicemember Right-to-Repair Act of 2024 requires the Department of Defense to retain the ability to repair equipment it owns and to have fair access to repair parts, tools, and information from contractors. The law mandates that defense contractors provide the military with repair materials at prices and terms equivalent to what they offer authorized repair providers, ensuring the military isn't locked out of fixing its own equipment due to intellectual property restrictions. The bill also requires the Pentagon to develop a system for tracking instances where contractors prevent military personnel from performing repairs, with annual public reports on these barriers to self-repair. The Defense Department and Government Accountability Office must submit reports within one to two years assessing compliance with these new requirements. This legislation aims to reduce military spending on equipment maintenance and enhance operational readiness by eliminating unnecessary dependence on manufacturers for repairs.

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