Andy - true (and a challenge to be followed for sure) however I would interpret (not a legal expert) that since LCNC doesn't sell or distribute "machines" (including by their definition), LCNC would not be restricted. A "software process" isn't defined as a singular script, executable or package, thus a "manufacturer of a subtractive machine that implements LCNC" (example) could (and would be required to) add more software to make it compliant at their own expense at the "complete machine level".

This interpretation is not substantially different from the impossible requirement of the OS (as "software") needing to natively provide such detection compliance, for if it did, then both Mach3/4 AND MS Windows would also be restricted from being sold in WA. I'm sure Redmond would have something to say about that in their own backyard!

If LCNC was including some qualified code to check for offending files or made the claim that it provided such a capability, then that would get legally-dicey indeed.

(again not a legal expert, simply a non-binding opinion)

Ted.

On January 22, 2026 8:20:43 AM andy pugh <[email protected]> wrote:

https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bills/House%20Bills/2321.pdf?q=20260122051205

Page 2, line 17.

If this passes then we would probably have no alternative but to not
allow the use of LinuxCNC in Washington State.

I see no way at all for LinuxCNC to comply. But I also see no way at
all to prevent the use of LinuxCNC in Wa.

--
atp
"A motorcycle is a bicycle with a pandemonium attachment and is
designed for the especial use of mechanical geniuses, daredevils and
lunatics."
— George Fitch, Atlanta Constitution Newspaper, 1912


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