Law & Order

Ohio Governor Signs SEMA-Supported Vehicle Freedom Bill Into Law

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a SEMA-supported bill (HB 201) into law that safeguards Ohioans' right to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs, regardless of fuel type. The new law prohibits any state or local government entity from restricting the use or sale of motor vehicles based on their power source, including internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Internal combustion engines

The SEMA-supported bill safeguards Ohioans' right to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs, regardless of fuel type.

"This is a monumental win for Ohioans and the freedom to choose," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Governor DeWine's decision to sign HB 201 into law sends a powerful message that Ohio values individual liberty and empowers its citizens to make informed choices about their transportation needs."

The law's enactment comes at a pivotal time in the automotive industry, with rapid advancements in alternative fuel technologies alongside ongoing concerns about electric vehicle affordability and infrastructure readiness. HB 201 safeguards the diversity of options available to Ohioans, allowing them to choose vehicles that align with their budgets, driving habits and personal preferences.

For more information, contact Kiley Chapley at kileyc@sema.org.