Revise ownership laws related to farm equipment embedded software- electronic control unit, sensor, switches, and controls

SB 509, the "Agricultural Embedded Software Act," requires manufacturers to treat embedded software in farm equipment (like tractors and harvesters) as sold - not licensed - to prevent restrictions on equipment use, repair, or resale. It mandates that manufacturers provide owners and independent repair shops with free access to necessary software updates, repair documentation, tools, and parts without requiring contracts or imposing unreasonable conditions. The law specifically prohibits manufacturers from using "parts pairing" or "secure release systems" to block independent repairs or restrict how farmers operate their equipment. This bill directly affects Montana farmers and repair businesses by ensuring they can maintain and repair equipment without manufacturer-imposed barriers. The bill died in process in May 2025 and was never enacted.