2014 SEMA Washington Rally Brings Industry Concerns to Capitol Hill

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

(L-R) SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting, SEMA Board Chairman Nate Shelton, Board Chair-Elect Doug Evans and Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA).

More than 40 SEMA members met with their elected representatives in Washington, D.C., as part of the May 14 Washington Rally. The meetings were a valuable opportunity to urge members of Congress to pursue a pro-growth manufacturing and job-creation agenda. Specific topics included support for the “Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act,” which would create a separate system for regulating companies that produce limited quantities of specialty cars. Other issues of concern included support for renewal of tax credits spurring business investments in research and equipment, comprehensive tax reform, preventing the sale of “E15” ethanol and protecting reasonable access to federal lands by the off-road community.

In between meetings, Rally participants were treated to a unique lunchtime panel discussion hosted by FOX News contributor Frank Luntz. Known for his trademark public opinion focus groups, Luntz emphasized topics impacting our industry and the current political landscape.

The day ended with an evening reception and dinner that featured fellow gearhead and member of the SEMA-supported Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA). Rep. LaMalfa arrived in style—behind the wheel of a replica Cobra. He was greeted at the event by SEMA President Chris Kersting, SEMA Board Chairman Nate Shelton and Chair-Elect Doug Evans.

During the festivities, Rep. LaMalfa visited with Rally attendees before addressing the gathering. His remarks highlighted his personal collection of cars while reinforcing his support of the industry.

For more information about the Rally, the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus or the SEMA Congressional District Site Visit program, please contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.