SEMA-opposed legislation to provide that the noise from a motor-vehicle exhaust system that has been deemed “disturbing or unreasonably loud” constitutes the crime of disturbing the peace is dead for the year.

The U.S. Senate passed a SEMA-supported bill to extend various expiring tax credits and deductions, including the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit. The House of Representatives passed a different version of the $140 billion bill last December.

The all-new SEMA-member Pay Per Buyer (PPB) benefit program is an online auto parts consumer comparison shopping network of more than 60 different websites and forums that draw over four million visitors monthly. Example sites include EnjoyTheDrive.com, StreetPerformance.com, AutoWeek.com and more.

The SEMA CIAPE China Business Development Conference is a low-cost way for members to explore the Chinese market's business potential.

Leading automakers and suppliers use simulations to accelerate the new-product development process—and so can your company! Learn how through a new SEMA webinar set for Thursday, March 25, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT).

The Technical Skills and Training Conference, launched by the Professional Restylers Organization, is a new program designed specifically for restylers and installers.

Also new for 2010: the opportunity to showcase your products and services within our popular weekly electronic newsletter. Limited online advertising programs are currently available and began with the March 11 edition (Volume 13/Issue 10) of SEMA eNews. Begin expanding your brand messaging this week!

California Assemblymember Tony Mendoza, born in South Central Los Angeles, is the second youngest of nine children. As a young man living in a single-parent home, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of working families and the opportunities that a good education provides. [Read More]

The deadline to register for the SEMA Installer Certification Exams is Wednesday, April 7. For more information, contact Beverly Rosen at beverlyr@sema.org.

SEMA's Memorial Scholarship Fund and Loan Forgiveness Program help students preparing for careers in the automotive industry and recent graduates working for SEMA member companies. Awards range from $1,000-$4,000, but you need to apply by April 2 to get in the running.