From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA issued the following statement in response to the introduction of Senate and House resolutions to overturn California's Clean Air Act waiver for the state's Advanced Clean Cars II policy:

"LFG."

SEMA represents the specialty-equipment industry, a third of which are businesses that are entirely dependent on products for internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles. To enact an ICE-vehicle ban through electric-vehicle (EV) mandates would represent a significant hit to the nation's economy by causing irreparable harm to an industry that annually delivers a $337 billion economic impact and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs through domestic manufacturing and sales.

In fact, 33% of the nation's automotive aftermarket industry is ICE-dependent, representing more than $100 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy and impacting roughly 330,000 jobs.

SEMA in January was among the first organizations to call upon federal lawmakers to utilize their authority under the Congressional Review Act to overturn the Clean Air Act waiver granted in the final days of the Biden-Harris administration to authorize the state's Advanced Clean Cars II policy. California’s action represents a regulatory land grab that will kill the nation's economy by banning the sale of internal combustion engines in California and 11 other states.

And just this week, SEMA and a coalition of 335 small businesses from the automotive aftermarket urged House of Representatives and Senate leadership to hold votes to put an immediate stop to the implementation of the Advanced Clean Cars II regulation.

Background

SEMA is not anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture, and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.

During the 2024 presidential campaign, SEMA, through its Driving Force Action SuperPAC, educated voters about the damaging impact of EV mandates and the profound importance of empowering the automotive aftermarket to develop innovative solutions to carbon emissions using American ingenuity.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, left, recently met with Jay Leno in support of SB 712, known as Leno's Law.

Next week, on Tuesday, April 8, California Senate Transportation Committee members will consider Senate Bill (SB) 712—better known as Leno's Law—which seeks to exempt collector motor vehicles at least 35 model years old from the biennial smog check program. Introduced by Senator Shannon Grove, this critical legislation is sponsored by renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA.

Looking to support this important cause? Click here to send a letter to your lawmakers.

SB 712 would provide a rolling exemption for collector vehicles, incorporating new classics such as JDM, early '80s muscle and European cars. This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends and car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles.

Leno, a lifelong collector and advocate for automotive culture, is backing the bill as its official sponsor.

"California's rich classic car culture, sparked by the post-war hot rod boom and boosted by Hollywood's love for chrome and horsepower, has made it a paradise for enthusiasts like me," said Leno. "California's smog check laws for classic cars need to be updated—they vary too much from state to state, and California's rules don't match up with neighboring ones. Our classic cars are only driven for special occasions, weekend drives and car shows. I am excited to work with Senator Grove on SB 712 to make it simpler for us to preserve these pieces of history."

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola strongly supported the bill, highlighting its significance to the classic car community and the specialty automotive aftermarket industry.

"SEMA is proud to support SB 712. Senator Grove's bill provides a practical solution for collector vehicle owners, allowing them to enjoy their passion without the burden of unnecessary regulations," said Spagnola. "These vehicles are rarely driven, meticulously maintained and represent only a fraction of the cars on the road."

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, represents approximately 1,066 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating $40.44 billion in economic impact, supporting 149,325 jobs, $13.47 billion in wages and benefits, and $6.16 billion in taxes.

For more information on how to support SB 712 and to stay updated on its progress, sign up to be a SEMA Action Member or contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, left, recently met with Jay Leno in support of SB 712, known as Leno's Law.

Next week, on Tuesday, April 8, California Senate Transportation Committee members will consider Senate Bill (SB) 712—better known as Leno's Law—which seeks to exempt collector motor vehicles at least 35 model years old from the biennial smog check program. Introduced by Senator Shannon Grove, this critical legislation is sponsored by renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA.

Looking to support this important cause? Click here to send a letter to your lawmakers.

SB 712 would provide a rolling exemption for collector vehicles, incorporating new classics such as JDM, early '80s muscle and European cars. This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends and car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles.

Leno, a lifelong collector and advocate for automotive culture, is backing the bill as its official sponsor.

"California's rich classic car culture, sparked by the post-war hot rod boom and boosted by Hollywood's love for chrome and horsepower, has made it a paradise for enthusiasts like me," said Leno. "California's smog check laws for classic cars need to be updated—they vary too much from state to state, and California's rules don't match up with neighboring ones. Our classic cars are only driven for special occasions, weekend drives and car shows. I am excited to work with Senator Grove on SB 712 to make it simpler for us to preserve these pieces of history."

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola strongly supported the bill, highlighting its significance to the classic car community and the specialty automotive aftermarket industry.

"SEMA is proud to support SB 712. Senator Grove's bill provides a practical solution for collector vehicle owners, allowing them to enjoy their passion without the burden of unnecessary regulations," said Spagnola. "These vehicles are rarely driven, meticulously maintained and represent only a fraction of the cars on the road."

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, represents approximately 1,066 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating $40.44 billion in economic impact, supporting 149,325 jobs, $13.47 billion in wages and benefits, and $6.16 billion in taxes.

For more information on how to support SB 712 and to stay updated on its progress, sign up to be a SEMA Action Member or contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

By SEMA News Editors 

SEMA+ is the new movement to unite the industry and amplify its collective voice. Formerly known as SEMA Individual Membership, SEMA+ is now for ANYONE, whether an industry professional, student or enthusiast passionate about their rides. (Join here). 

Not only does SEMA+ bring industry members together to build community, but it also comes with a slate of benefits, including access to automotive aftermarket discounts from brands like Summit Racing, Addictive Dessert Designs, OMP, Edelbrock, VP Fuels and Trim Illusion, plus lifestyle deals from top names like Ray-Ban, Garmin, Oakley and 5.11 Tactical, among many others. Furthermore, SEMA+ members can also grab discounted passes to industry events, like $10 off multiple tickets (and reserved seating) to the NHRA Grand Nationals at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, June 27-29.* In fact, the SEMA+ member portal features more than 100 brands available to the SEMA community.*  

For those who want to help protect the future of automotive, SEMA+ also gives members a chance to get involved with the SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) to help drive real change. 

Best of all, the cost is just $40 per year (which comes to $3.33 per month). In short, joining SEMA+ is a no-brainer for anyone passionate about the automotive aftermarket. Those interested in joining SEMA+ can visit sema.org/plus to join the community, gain immediate access to discounted brands and events (and so much more)!  

Questions? Contact Director of Individual Membership AJ Carney at ajc@sema.org. 

*As of April 3, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors

Housing reservations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, including several new hotels, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

Driving to the Show? See the list below for hotels offering free parking during the Show and book through onPeak to secure your stay.  

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, as well as numerous other benefits for Showgoers.

Hotel reservations for the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--are now open online here. Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show will open on Monday, April 28.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Austen Knight, social media and partnerships coordinator at Antigravity Batteries, as the network's newest spotlight member.  

Get to know Knight in his interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

Austen Knight: Never let fear decide your fate. Things can be scary both professionally and personally; that knot in the pit of your stomach speaks up and makes you want to quit. Don't. That knot can often mean that you're doing something right--don't let it decide your fate. Take that calculated risk, do something different and trust that in the end, everything will be okay.

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

AK: The automotive industry is my passion and always has been. Even before my full-time gig was in the industry, I had many side jobs in the industry and always found myself doing something with cars. Fast forward to now, and it's no different; you will find me in my free time still enjoying car stuff, be that at a stage rally snapping pictures or turning wrenches on my own cars. The other aspect that keeps me coming back is the people; some of the best people I have met in this life have been through the industry, including many of my now close friends.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

AK: Last year would have been a mix of Formula Drift events, rallies and working on my truck. For 2025, I have a new rally-x car that I plan to race at DirtFish as my time allows around my work masters schedule.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?  

AK: Before an important meeting, I always review the topic of the meeting and spend some time researching it further on the internet in order to be familiar with the topic being discussed. I also make sure to take a few minutes to myself beforehand to center and be mentally checked in so that I am ready to listen and participate in the meeting.

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?  

AK: Jim Farley, hands down. I think I would thoroughly enjoy working with him at some point in the future based on what I know about him.

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.  

By Ashley Reyes

Allyship plays a critical role in fostering inclusive and supportive work environments. For new professionals entering the job market, understanding how to identify companies that prioritize diversity and allyship can help them achieve long-term success and professional growth.

On April 8 at 12:00 p.m. PDT, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) will host a webinar titled "Ally Series: The Essential Guide for New Professionals." This session will help attendees navigate the early career stage with a focus on allyship. 

Speakers include industry experts who have successfully championed ally initiatives, including Cindy Barlow, director of industry relations at WyoTech; Emily McConkey, marketing specialist at Brown & Watson International; Mark Omundson, vice president of automotive aftermarket recruiting at Jamison Search; and Heather Holler, WRC mechanic at Hyundai Motorsports GmbH. Rachel Speir, branding and marketing specialist at RS Marqueting, will guide the discussion and facilitate the question-and-answer period.  

Key takeaways include:  

• Job search strategies: How to identify companies with inclusive cultures and allyship values during interviews and research. 
• Culture fit: Tips on recognizing positive workplace environments and supportive leadership early on. 
• Mentorship: Guidance on finding mentors and leaders within an organization who can help one grow as an ally. 
• Allyship from day one: Practical advice on how to advocate for inclusivity and support others, even at an entry-level position. 
• Personal and professional growth: Insights from mid to mid-senior level employees on how allyship has benefitted their careers and enhanced their work experiences. 
• Identifying allies: How to find and connect with fellow allies in a new company to strengthen one's support network. 

Register for the webinar here.  

By Ashley Reyes

On May 1 at 9:00 a.m. PDT, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC) will host its next Coffee and Conversation virtual networking event. Register here.    

Held monthly, WTSBC Coffee and Conversation events provide aftermarket professionals with an opportunity to openly discuss key issues shaping the wheel, tire, suspension and brake markets.

"Coffee and Conversation events not only help SEMA members expand their professional network but provide a platform for attendees to learn about a variety of topics relevant to their business," said WTSBC Council Director Nicole Bradle. "By bringing professionals from different markets and job titles together, the event enables participants to exchange ideas and gain new perspectives on challenges and opportunities they might not have known about."  

Topics of discussion are provided by WTSBC members. The event in February focused on towing and suspension, followed by a discussion about the evolution of Ultra4 racecars in March. The upcoming event in May will not feature a specific topic; instead, this session invites attendees to bring a topic that they wish to discuss. This approach ensures that all participants gain valuable information or connections from the event.  

Examples of past topics brought by attendees include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), legislative updates, new-vehicle technology and supply chain; however, any topic that addresses wheel, tire, suspension or brake-related issues is welcomed by the select committee.     

Each event begins with attendees sharing their name and area of expertise to help members identify who they can potentially collaborate with in the future. Manufacturers, service providers, distributors, dealers, installers and media are all encouraged to attend.

"The Coffee and Conversation events bring together some of the industry's most insightful and informed professionals," said past participant Moses Ludel of 4WD Mechanix Magazine. "The group is welcoming and always open to new ideas, tire-related topics and fresh faces."

Register for the event here. 

By Ashley Reyes

Volunteering on a SEMA council or network select committee can be rewarding for professionals looking to increase their involvement and impact in the automotive aftermarket industry.  

SEMA News recently interviewed Mark Bowler, CEO at Bowler Transmissions; Dallas Johannas, merchandiser at RPUI; and Kelleigh Shankel, chief technology officer at Battle Motors about their volunteer experience and giving back to the causes they care most about.   

Read their insights below, and if you are interested in volunteering on one of SEMA's nine council and network select committees, apply by April 18 at www.sema.org/volunteer.   

SEMA News: Can you share a memorable success story from your time volunteering with the Association?  

Mark Bowler: It was great to be part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and help bring industry attention to the builders and leaders in our market segment. One of the best opportunities I had was introducing the HRIA Design and Innovation Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award, to give back to the builders by recognizing their iconic builds at the SEMA Show. 

The best part of my time with HRIA was having the opportunity to lead the Feature Vehicle Program, which brings 10 of the industry's trendsetting cars to the SEMA Show to spotlight our HRIA member builders and products. 

Dallas Johannes: By volunteering on Future Leaders Network (FLN) task forces and subcommittees, I've been able to see the growth of multiple programs that create value for SEMA members. I've seen the Professional Development Program (PDP) grow into an annual leadership training program that has benefited young industry professionals from a variety of backgrounds and different sectors of our unique and specialized industry.

Kelleigh Shankel: One of the most meaningful parts of volunteering with the association has been the direct role I've played in helping protect our businesses and the broader automotive aftermarket from harmful legislation. Over the past few years, SEMA has taken real action to protect our space, and being part of that process--meeting directly with legislators, lending perspective, offering feedback, and helping shape the response--made it feel like I wasn't just watching change happen, I was actively contributing to it. 

SN: How has volunteering with SEMA contributed to your personal or professional growth?   

Bowler: It helped me build a better network of like-minded passionate people in our industry to learn from and build a solid relationship. One example that stands out is the personal connection that I have formed with Rick Love. He and I have become close personal friends, and he has now become a business mentor, which has helped me through many challenges of growing our company and has pushed me to be a better leader and business-minded individual.

Johannes: I've had the opportunity to speak at different networking events, during the FLN general membership meetings, and even become the chair of the FLN Lunch and Learn program where I host discussions with industry professionals. Those opportunities have allowed me to feel much more comfortable talking in front of larger groups of people.   

Shankel: It's pushed me to think more strategically, stay ahead of industry trends, and engage in dynamic conversations that go far beyond the walls of my own company. But more than that, it's been the single biggest contributor to building my personal network. The relationships I've formed through the committees and events have opened doors to incredible collaborations, partnerships, and professional opportunities I never would've come across otherwise.  

SN: Would you recommend volunteering on a select committee to others and why? 

Bowler: Yes, I would highly encourage other business owners to volunteer. I feel it is a great opportunity to support the industry, build a network of great people, and help gain a better understanding of SEMA and what they truly do for our industry.  

Johannes: I highly recommend volunteering on a select committee. Select committees are the voice for the general members of their respective councils and networks within SEMA and have the chance to really drive change by creating programs, putting on events, and driving initiatives that benefit the automotive aftermarket.   

Shankel: 100%, yes, absolutely. It's one of the few opportunities where you can both give back and grow at the same time. You get to shape the direction of the industry while learning from other people who are just as committed. If you're someone who wants to have a voice in where we're headed and build meaningful relationships along the way, it's a no-brainer.  

Applications to volunteer on a SEMA council and network select committee close Friday, April 18. Learn more and apply at sema.org/volunteer. 

By SEMA News Editors

Experts from the SEMA Garage team and Kettering University will be sharing SEMA's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) dynamic testing results from a modified Ford F-150 at the SAE World Congress (WCX) in Detroit as part of the event's technical session schedule.

During the presentation--scheduled for Wednesday, April 9 at 8:30 a.m. EDT in Huntington Place Room 252 B in Detroit--SEMA ADAS Engineer Mike Muller and SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology and Product Development Luis Morales will be joined by Jennifer M. Bastiaan, Ph. D, Kettering University associate professor of mechanical engineering, to discuss the effect of aftermarket modifications on ADAS functionality of a '21 Ford F-150.

The presentation, which is also published as an SAE technical paper here, will summarize the results of the functionality testing and present a statistical analysis of the test data collected.

For more details on the presentation, click here.