A SEMA-supported bill has been introduced in the Washington State Senate to exempt restoration and custom shops from the requirement that they provide written estimates for the repair of any vehicle that qualifies for a “horseless carriage” or “collector vehicle” license plate, is a “parts car,” “street rod” or “custom vehicle.” The bill was considered January 17, 2012, in the Senate Government Operations Committee. 

The measure would allow restoration and custom shops to bill at least every two weeks on a time and materials basis. Shops would be able to accurately inform customers of actual costs and materials, removing vagueness associated with shops attempting to “guess” probable time for unique tasks and probable costs for unique and, in some cases, yet-to-be fabricated parts.  

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.