The U.S. House of Representatives passed SEMA-supported legislation to make permanent the 2009 estate tax rate of 45 percent and exemption rate of $3.5 million/individual ($7 million couple). Under President Bush’s tax cuts of 2001, the so-called “death tax” is being gradually phased-out by 2010.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a finding that carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gas emissions endanger public health and the environment.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set the standard business-mileage deduction at $.50 a mile for 2010. The rate is below the $.55 cents allowed during 2009, reflecting lower transportation costs during the past year.

Decked out with custom mods inside and out from SEMA member companies, this 2009 Ford F-150 Super Crew 4x4 is now up for auction on eBay. Proceeds from the sale benefit SEMA Cares charities ChildHelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Kyle Busch wins the Snowball Derby; The FIA grants Sauber (formerly BMW) Formula One team a spot on the 2010 grid; Peak Performance Motor Oil extends partnership with IZOD IndyCar Series; and more news from the racing world.

A photo collection of new products entered into the Outdoor & Towing product category of the 2009 SEMA Show New Products Showcase.

Hurst Performance hires industry veteran Tony Baumgartner as vice president of sales; Rostra Precision Controls and Mobileye establish distribution agreement; Roger Penske makes $25,000 donation to Brienne Davis Memorial Scholarship; and more news from around the industry.

Dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows and activities have been announced.

Just when you thought higher education was out of reach, the SEMA Education Institute (SEI), in cooperation with Harvard Business School Publishing, is offering Harvard Manage Mentor, an extensive online training opportunity taught by today's foremost business leaders, practitioners, and experts.

Dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows and activities have been announced.