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ARA issued a statement on July 14 in response an Executive Order signed by President Biden on July 9 that calls on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to institute rules to curb anti-competitive restrictions that limit consumers’ repair choices. The Executive order includes dozens of specific initiatives, including a requirement that the FTC undertake a rulemaking on repair and maintenance. “The ARA has been a member of the national Right to Repair Coalition for several years,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. “I have seen the issue gain traction in my home state of Massachusetts where a ballot initiative specific to motor vehicles passed by overwhelming majority in November 2020. Consumers and the general public are supportive of this issue, and I am encouraged by the recognition it has received within our federal government.” ARA has met with the FTC on multiple occasions to discuss attempts by automobile manufacturers to push ROE - Recycled Original Equipment parts out of the market with misinformation campaigns and barriers to consumer choice. “ARA will be meeting again with the FTC in the coming days to discuss their recent “Nixing the Fix, a Report to Congress” that details the anti-competitive measures facing the vehicle aftermarket,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “ARA supports this Executive Order and hopes that it is a positive indication of things to come that will address right to repair issues in the motor vehicle sector.”