The Iowa Farmers Union announced on Apr. 28 that it supports the Iowa House’s passage of H.F. 2763, a bill that strengthens farmers’ ability to repair their own farm equipment. The bipartisan legislation passed by a large margin and now moves to the Iowa Senate.
The issue is important because many farmers face rising costs and delays when repairing modern machinery, often due to restrictions from manufacturers. Allowing direct repairs can help keep farms running smoothly during critical planting and harvesting seasons.
Aaron Lehman, President of the Iowa Farmers Union and a fifth-generation farmer, said, “Farmers Union has been a longtime advocate of Right to Repair issues. Farmers are facing rising costs across the board, including repair costs. Allowing farmers to fix their own equipment is common sense.” Lehman also said, “Farmers have a passion for growing things on their farms. This bill allows us to fix our own equipment as efficiently and as quickly as possible during busy planting and harvesting seasons.”
For years, farmers have traditionally repaired their own machines but now encounter software locks or error codes unless an authorized dealer intervenes with proprietary tools—a process that can be costly and time-consuming. Lehman said, “If the farmer has the skill and purchases a perfectly good replacement part, nothing should stand in their way of making their own repair and getting back to work. Software gatekeepers should stay off the farm unless invited.”
Under H.F. 2763, agricultural equipment makers would need to provide documentation, software updates, firmware access, and diagnostic tools at fair prices for both farmers and independent shops while protecting trade secrets and safety features.
Lehman highlighted another aspect: “Current farm equipment collects a massive amount of information from the field. This bill would help farmers retain control of that valuable asset instead of handing it away to the farm equipment manufacturers and corporate data giants.”
The Iowa Farmers Union promotes social well-being by pushing for sustainable practices that guarantee safe food supplies and thriving communities according to its official website. The organization aligns with the National Farmers Union in order to amplify its policy influence according to its official website. It seeks to strengthen independent family farms through education efforts, legislative action, collaboration with others in agriculture—and champions sustainable production methods according to its official website.
Accordingly to its official website, policies are crafted at grassroots level by members themselves before being approved collectively; these policies guide legislative engagement focused on supporting family farms as well as equitable markets across Iowa’s rural communities.
The organization extends services throughout Iowa’s farming regions according to its official website.
