To the Editor,
The coronavirus pandemic has been unkind to a lot of industries, and unfortunately, the agriculture industry has been no exception. As the owner of Marzolf Implement, I know firsthand the struggle farmers are facing to recover from the devastating economic impact of the past year, in addition to the impact of bad weather.
On top of all of that, a policy commonly referred to as “right to repair” may make it more difficult for my business to help farmers quickly fix their equipment.
Special interest groups are pushing for this “right to repair” policy to become law, saying it will help the agriculture industry. But these bills have nothing to do with a farmers’ ability to fix, repair, and maintain their equipment because they already can fix it. Manufacturers and dealers want to empower farmers, not take advantage of our customers that keep us in business. The push for “right to repair” has unfairly mischaracterized my business and how we operate.
We also understand the frustration that accompanies new technology and new operating systems for tractors and combines. Equipment manufacturers, just like most other industries, have become more efficient thanks to innovation. We also understand and value farmers’ self-sufficient attitudes and care about the needs of our customers.
“Right to repair” bills will negatively impact the agricultural industry and the many farmers, workers, and small businesses like mine that are a part of it. State lawmakers should avoid this legislation and focus on better policies that enrich our community.
Corey Marzolf
Marzolf Implement
Spring Valley, Minn.