From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
SEMA and PRI are expanding its Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/right-to-race.
Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:
In a stunning betrayal of the bipartisan group of lawmakers who overwhelmingly passed Wisconsin's right-to-race legislation, Gov. Tony Evers vetoed AB 880, legislation aimed at protecting long-standing race tracks from nuisance lawsuits brought by new neighbors and developers.
Notably, the bill had no registered opposition in the state Assembly and Senate. But in defending his veto, Gov. Evers, who previously shared his fond memories of growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, stated his belief that the bill would create "unfair and unnecessary hurdles for people pursuing legal avenues to vindicate the use and enjoyment of their land," and that he sought to establish Wisconsin as a state with an "open courthouse door."
BACKGROUND
AB 880 advanced through the Wisconsin State Legislature with strong support from lawmakers who recognize the importance of small businesses and the cultural and economic role motorsports plays across Wisconsin. The bill furthermore sought to reaffirm the important role of motorsports on the state's economy.
According to PRI's economic impact data, Wisconsin's motorsports industry is a major economic driver, contributing:
- $2.46 billion in total economic impact
- 10,601 jobs
- $697.92 million in wages and benefits
- $271.60 million in tax revenue
For decades, racetracks across the state have served as gathering places for working families, while supporting local economies, tourism and small businesses. Without protections like those included in AB 880, these facilities remain vulnerable to nuisance-based legal challenges that can threaten their long-term stability.
NEXT STEPS
While the veto is a setback, it also underscores the importance of continued engagement and advocacy. The coalition built in Wisconsin, including racetracks, manufacturers, tourism groups, and small business leaders, has demonstrated strong alignment and momentum.
Since launching this effort in Wisconsin, SEMA and PRI have led a comprehensive and coordinated campaign. This has included hosting two advocacy days at the State Capitol, meeting with dozens of lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, engaging nearly 100 industry stakeholders, working through key amendments, testifying in multiple hearings, coordinating with the governor's office, and submitting thousands of letters and signatures in support of the bill.
SEMA and PRI will continue working alongside industry partners to advance Right-to-Race protections and ensure that racetracks can operate with certainty and stability.
The checkered flag hasn't waved. Our coalition is stronger than ever, and we are committed to getting this across the finish line.
For more information, contact SEMA and PRI Director of Government Affairs for Racing Tierra Hubbard at tierrah@sema.org.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Railway FX
