A decade-long battle to require auto manufacturers to release diagnostic and software information as well as tools to auto repair shops and individuals was shot down this past weekend. Also known as the “Right to Repair” bill, the proposed legislation which passed the Massachusetts State Senate July 6th was denied entry to law by the Massachusetts House this past Saturday evening.

Opposition to the bill was largely felt by automakers. They believe the bill would be costly for both dealers and automakers possibly threatening their industry. Auto manufacturers also fear their valued information would fall in the wrong hands allowing other companies to make generics of their specialized and trade-secret parts. Supports of the bill stated it would make lower repair costs available to consumers and allow independent repair shops to compete with the dealers.

The high tensions of the Right to Repair Act may also be seen in its expensive costs. Opposition and proponents have spent a total of $1.3 million on lobbying and advertising this past year in efforts to sway voters.

If this measure were to have passed it would have made Massachusetts the first state to require auto manufacturer’s to release their highly valued informaiton. The Right to Repair coalition plans to bring their best when the legislation meets again next year. If at first you don’t succeed – try, try again.