By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
Christian Robinson (left), SEMA senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, and Greg Adler, president and CEO of Offroad Warehouse, accept the Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award on behalf of Rep. John Carson, who could not travel to the 2024 SEMA Show due to the 2024 election.
SEMA is excited to announce Georgia State Rep. John Carson, a Republican representing the Atlanta suburbs in District 46, as winner of the 2024 Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award. Rep. Carson was honored for his outstanding leadership in passing SB 352, legislation that modernizes Georgia's vehicle suspension modification laws.
The Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award--presented to Rep. Carson at the 2024 SEMA Show--is one of SEMA's highest honors, given annually to a state lawmaker who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in supporting and protecting the rights of automotive businesses, consumers and enthusiasts. The award is named after Stephen B. McDonald, a long-time SEMA advocate who dedicated his career to advancing pro-industry policies and helps recognize lawmakers who champion legislation that strengthens the specialty automotive industry.
Rep. Carson's work on SB 352 was a significant victory for Georgia's automotive aftermarket industry. The bill replaced the state's outdated and ambiguous suspension-modification limit, which had capped changes at a 2-in. height difference based on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. The new law provides a more transparent, consistent standard by measuring vehicle height from the ground to the frame. This reform has eliminated confusion among car owners and law enforcement, creating a more transparent regulatory environment protecting automotive enthusiasts and businesses specializing in vehicle customization.
Rep. Carson's work on SB 352 highlights his commitment to creating a fair and transparent regulatory environment for the automotive aftermarket. Key industry leaders supported his efforts, including Fox Factory and Offroad Warehouse, who significantly advocated for the bill's passage.
Christian Robinson, SEMA senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, praised Carson's leadership. "Rep. Carson's commitment to supporting our industry and ensuring fair laws for automotive enthusiasts and businesses is truly commendable," said Robinson. "His leadership on SB 352 is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when lawmakers listen to their constituents and work to improve the regulatory environment. This law brings clarity and fairness to vehicle modification rules and strengthens Georgia's position as a hub for the specialty automotive industry."
The economic impact of SEMA's members in Georgia is substantial. The aftermarket industry contributes significantly to the state's economy, with a total economic output of $11.63 billion, supporting nearly 50,000 jobs and contributing $1.39 billion in taxes. This underscores the vital role of SEMA and its members in driving economic growth in Georgia's automotive sector.
Rep. Carson has been a dedicated public servant in the Georgia House of Representatives since winning a special election in 2011 to represent District 46, covering parts of Cobb and Cherokee counties north of Atlanta. Carson has been known throughout his tenure for his focus on transportation, tax reform and public safety.
Beyond his legislative achievements, Carson is also a certified public accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in the financial services industry. He leverages his professional background to advocate for fiscal responsibility in state government, focusing on policies that spur economic development while lowering the tax burden for Georgia's citizens and businesses.
For more information on SEMA's advocacy initiatives and how to get involved, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.