By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released guidance confirming that American farmers and equipment owners have a lawful right to repair their farm and nonroad diesel equipment. The agency clarified that the Clean Air Act does not prevent repairs and should not be used to limit access to repair tools or software.
"EPA is proud to set the record straight and protect farmers. For far too long, manufacturers have wrongly used the Clean Air Act to monopolize the repair markets, hurting our farmers," said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "Common sense is following the law as it is written, and that is what the Trump EPA is committed to doing. By protecting every American's right to repair, we're not just fixing devices, we're securing a stronger, more independent future for our country."
"By clarifying manufacturers can no longer use the Clean Air Act to justify limiting access to repair tools or software, we are reaffirming the lawful right of American farmers and equipment owners to repair their farm equipment," said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.
Continued Rollins, "This is expected to save our farmers thousands in unnecessary repairs, saving much needed funds after Bidenflation drove up equipment costs on average 45%."
In the past, some manufacturers interpreted emission control rules as a reason to restrict repairs to authorized dealers. This often led to higher repair costs and long wait times. Many farmers were forced to delay important fieldwork or rely on older equipment they could fix themselves.
The EPA’s guidance explains that temporary changes to emission control systems are allowed when they are made for repair purposes. This includes repairs involving modern technologies such as selective catalytic reduction systems and Diesel Exhaust Fluid components. Farmers can legally complete repairs without depending only on manufacturer-approved service centers.
"EPA's guidance affirming the Right to Repair will save our agricultural communities thousands of dollars by eliminating corporate middlemen and empowering farmers to fix their own equipment," said Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler.
"The Clean Air Act has long crushed family farmers across America - but under the Trump Administration, they are finally getting the regulatory relief to break free from burdensome Green New Scam rules and focus on the vital job of feeding, clothing, and fueling America and the world," said Loeffler.
The agency emphasized that this clarification does not weaken environmental standards or change the law. All equipment must still meet emission requirements once repairs are completed. The guidance simply explains how existing rules already support practical maintenance needs.
By improving access to repair options, the EPA expects farmers to save money and reduce downtime during critical farming seasons. This also encourages the use of newer, more efficient equipment that supports both productivity and environmental goals.
The action reflects a broader effort to support farmers while protecting air quality. By balancing economic needs with environmental responsibility, the EPA’s guidance strengthens agriculture and supports long-term sustainability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kn1
Categories: National