From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA Director of Emissions Compliance Dean Schlingmann has been appointed to the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) Advisory Group, an important post and seat at the table for the automotive-aftermarket industry. The advisory group brings together industry leaders and regulators to shape policies on smog checks, emissions compliance and automotive repair standards in California.
BAR oversees high-profile initiatives like California's Smog Check program, which regulates vehicle emissions compliance, as well as licensing and consumer protection for automotive repair shops. California is often at the forefront of setting new environmental and regulatory standards, and its decisions frequently influence federal and other states' policies.
Schlingmann, who oversees the SEMA Emissions Lab and works closely with the California Air Resources Board and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, adds extensive expertise in emissions compliance and alternative fuel innovation to the group. His appointment ensures the specialty-equipment industry has a strong voice in discussions that play a large role in setting national regulatory policies.
By securing representation in this advisory group for our industry, SEMA can advocate for practical solutions that balance environmental goals with the needs of small businesses. Schlingmann's presence provides a direct channel to influence discussions and ensure that regulations are fair, achievable and nurture the industry's ability to innovate.
For more information, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.