EPA Clarifies Right to Repair for Farmers

On February 2, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued new guidance affirming the right of American farmers and equipment owners to repair their own nonroad diesel equipment. This guidance clarifies that the Clean Air Act (CAA) supports rather than restricts the ability of individuals to perform repairs, effectively preventing manufacturers from using the CAA to limit access to necessary repair tools and software. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the importance of this clarification, stating that it aims to protect farmers from monopolistic practices by equipment manufacturers.

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The EPA's guidance is expected to significantly reduce repair costs for farmers, who have historically been forced to rely on manufacturer-authorized dealers for repairs. This reliance has not only increased costs but has also led many farmers to opt for older equipment lacking modern emission controls, as they can repair these older models themselves. The new guidance allows for temporary overrides of emission control systems for repair purposes, thereby enabling farmers to perform maintenance more affordably and efficiently.

Trump EPA enters right-to-repair debate with emissions guidance

The guidance follows a request from John Deere, a major agricultural equipment manufacturer, which sought clarification on the CAA's provisions regarding repair. In June 2025, John Deere requested the EPA confirm that temporary emission control overrides are permissible for repairs. The EPA's response aligns with ongoing discussions within the farming community about the right to repair, a topic that has gained traction in recent years.

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EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated, “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.” Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins echoed this sentiment, noting that the guidance would save farmers thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs. Additionally, Nathan Proctor, Senior Right to Repair Campaign Director at PIRG, expressed satisfaction with the EPA's reaffirmation of farmers' rights, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to grant access to necessary repair tools and information.

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While the guidance has been largely welcomed by farmers and repair advocates, some critics argue that manufacturers may still find ways to limit access to essential repair tools. Michael Regan, former EPA administrator under President Joe Biden, previously stated that nothing in the CAA restricts manufacturers from providing service tools to consumers. This inconsistency highlights ongoing tensions between regulatory intentions and industry practices.

Trump EPA enters right-to-repair debate with emissions guidance

The EPA's clarification is expected to encourage farmers to utilize newer equipment, as they will no longer be hindered by restrictive repair practices. The agency's commitment to supporting farmers while ensuring compliance with environmental standards will continue to be monitored as the implications of this guidance unfold in the agricultural sector.

EPA Advances Farmers’ Right to Repair Their Own Equipment, Saving Repair Costs and Productivity