Leading the charge in consumer rights, Quebec has recently adopted a novel law, Bill 29, aiming to protect consumers against planned obsolescence and to promote the sustainability and repairability of goods. The law, formally known as the Act to Protect Consumers from Planned Obsolescence and to Promote the Durability, Repairability and Maintenance of Goods (the Act), introduces important amendments to Quebec’s existing Consumer Protection Act (CPA). Approved and enforced on October 5, 2023, the Act brings significant new responsibilities for merchants and manufacturers.
While the specificities of the Act are yet to be explored in depth, the move no doubt represents a paradigm shift in consumer rights and business obligations. Emphasizing the right-to-repair, the Act essentially tugs at the reins of product lifespans determined by manufacturers (Bennett Jones LLP) .
For the legal professionals working in corporations and law firms, the implications of this legislative change could be far-reaching. They would need to restructure their business practices in Quebec, aligning them with the Act’s mandates. Consequently, merchandisers and manufacturers may have to prepare for potentially enhanced scrutiny from consumer rights advocates and law enforcers.
To closely follow the effects of this evolving legislation and understand its wider implications, it is crucial for legal professionals to stay updated and prepare for any potential knock-on effects it may have on their business and legal strategies.