Coalition of Pro-Hobbyist State Lawmakers Grows in Numbers, Influence
It's easy to bash politicians for what they do--and don't do--but here's a group of politicians who have at least one thing in common with the rest of us:
One hundred state lawmakers joined the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus during the recently concluded National Conference of State Legislatures conference in New Orleans. Founded in 2005 and supported by SEMA, the caucus is designed as a nonpartisan group of state legislators whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles. The caucus is serving to raise the industry’s profile in the state capitols and in the eyes of the public.
Working with the state legislatures in recent years, SEMA has sought legislation to overhaul existing statutes and create brand-new programs to safeguard and expand the automotive hobby. These efforts have brought a series of significant legislative and regulatory accomplishments for the specialty-equipment industry on issues ranging from equipment standards to registration classifications to emissions test policy to hobbyist rights. The caucus now numbers approximately 350 members from all 50 states.
For more information on the caucus, including a list of its members, click here. Don't see your elected official here? The site includes info on how to contact your state government representatives, and guidance on how to lobby on behalf of the automotive hobby.