Advocating for Wheelchair Users Across New York State

On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, New York State Senator Patricia Fahy, along with Senator Jake Ashby and Assemblywoman Gabriella Romero, held a press conference in which she introduced new legislation regarding the right to wheelchair repair. Disability Rights New York, New York Association on Independent Living, Living Resources, Spina Bifida Association, CP State, and more were all in attendance at the Senator’s press conference to show their support.

In 2024,  93% of wheelchair users surveyed said they needed at least one repair to their wheelchair. Did you know that wheelchair users must go through an authorized retailer for repairs? This requirement leads to frighteningly long wait times for these vital repairs. In fact, in some cases it can take months for a repair to happen, leaving the wheelchair user without their independence. This is true for even minor repairs that could normally be fixed at home in no time. This legislation, Consumer Wheelchair Repair Bill of Rights Act (S.4500) aims to address long repair wait times and limited consumer choices.

Elizabeth Martin, Living Resources CEO, attended the press conference and shared the following: “as CEO of Living Resources, an organization which supports the disability community, I see firsthand how individuals who use wheelchairs are often at the mercy of manufacturers for essential repairs. Wheelchairs are more than equipment—they are a person’s mobility and independence. Timely repairs are crucial, which is why Living Resources supports Senate Bill S4500.”

If enacted, S.4500 will require wheelchair manufacturers to provide independent repair providers and wheelchair owners with the necessary parts, tools, and documentation to conduct repairs. As Senator Fahy said in her press release regarding the legislation, “Everyone deserves the ability to repair the tools that grant them independence, and this legislation will ensure just that.” We urge you to reach out to your representatives and ask them to support the passing of the Consumer Wheelchair Repair Bill of Rights Act (S.4500).