By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SEMA-supported "Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act" (EXPLORE Act), H.R. 6492, by a voice vote.

The comprehensive public lands bill directs the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to create more motorized opportunities on public lands, addresses special recreation permits and fees that have been expensive and cumbersome for off-road groups to navigate on federal lands, attempts to improve visitor experiences, addresses the lack of affordable housing causing staffing shortages on public lands, and transforms outdoor recreation experiences for active-duty military members, veterans and Gold Star families. 

The EXPLORE Act, which has a broad range of support from more than 30 organizations, now advances to the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee. The strongly bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), who drafted the bill in coordination with Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ). The EXPLORE Act expands on S. 873, the "America's Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023" (AORA), and includes key, SEMA-supported provisions from the bill. The Senate ENR Committee passed S. 873 in 2023.  

"SEMA thanks Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Grijalva for their continued advocacy for the EXPLORE Act, which was critical in getting the House to pass the bill with such strong bipartisan support," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "The EXPLORE Act is critical to the motorized recreation community. The bill would streamline the process and expenses associated with obtaining special recreation permits, require federal land management agencies to increase opportunities for motorized and non-motorized access on public lands, and direct the BLM and Forest Service to make maps available to the public depicting where vehicles are allowed to recreate." 

The EXPLORE Act is a comprehensive legislative effort that increases access to outdoor recreation opportunities to help grow the $1.1 trillion impact of the outdoor recreation industry. You can find more information about the major provisions of the legislation by reviewing the section-by-section outline. 

For more information on the EXPLORE Act, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) requesting comments and information to assist in the potential development of regulations for the manufacturing, importing, processing, recycling and distribution in commerce of lead for wheel-balancing weights ("lead wheel weights") under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). 

EPA is seeking comments and information on specific issues regarding potential exposure to lead in wheel weights and information on substitutes for lead wheel weights. This information will help inform the agency's determinations regarding potential unreasonable risk to human health and the environment from exposure to lead wheel weights. You can read the full ANPRM, "Lead Wheel Weights, Regulatory Investigation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)," to determine if you have quantitative information, data and/or case examples the agency is requesting.  

While the EPA is currently information-gathering, the agency may initiate a proposed rulemaking if it finds lead wheel weights pose a danger to public health. SEMA encourages industry businesses that produce, import or sell lead wheel weights to provide comment to the EPA. The deadline for comments is Friday, May 3, 2024. You can submit your comments here.

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) requesting comments and information to assist in the potential development of regulations for the manufacturing, importing, processing, recycling and distribution in commerce of lead for wheel-balancing weights ("lead wheel weights") under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). 

EPA is seeking comments and information on specific issues regarding potential exposure to lead in wheel weights and information on substitutes for lead wheel weights. This information will help inform the agency's determinations regarding potential unreasonable risk to human health and the environment from exposure to lead wheel weights. You can read the full ANPRM, "Lead Wheel Weights, Regulatory Investigation Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)," to determine if you have quantitative information, data and/or case examples the agency is requesting.  

While the EPA is currently information-gathering, the agency may initiate a proposed rulemaking if it finds lead wheel weights pose a danger to public health. SEMA encourages industry businesses that produce, import or sell lead wheel weights to provide comment to the EPA. The deadline for comments is Friday, May 3, 2024. You can submit your comments here.

For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By SEMA News Editors

Great exhibit space remains--but is selling quickly--for the SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas. Leading brands from across the nation and globe have signed on to exhibit for this year's event, which is on track to return to historic exhibitor levels with growth across all Halls and product categories. Reserve your booth here.

"The SEMA Show is shaping up to be the best to date. It will, once again, be the best place to make new domestic and international contacts and help expand your brand's distribution," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "Of course, exhibitors are also keen to stay up-to-date with the latest trends through the SEMA New Products Showcase, the world-class SEMA Education tracks and more events and activations like the SEMA Battle of the Builders. Don't miss out on securing exhibit space now, as available space won't last long."

Indeed, the SEMA Show will once again serve as the best opportunity of the year to connect in person with existing customers, discuss new ideas and challenges, and strengthen business relationships--all with the backdrop of a global platform to engage with specialty-automotive market professionals, media members, influencers, buyers and more coming from more than 100 countries and regions.

In addition to helping boost a business's bottom line, the SEMA Show also provides the unique opportunity for exhibitors to assemble their team of employees to learn new skills, make new connections and develop their professional careers--all in one location across four days. 

"At SEMA, exhibitors can see who the breakout stars on your staff are and who might need further development, perhaps through one of the dedicated SEMA Education tracks," said Tompkins.  

Of course, supporting the SEMA Show not only empowers businesses to progress their goals but also helps to power SEMA's mission to serve the industry by protecting and preserving the automotive lifestyle for generations to come.

"SEMA works year-round to protect consumers' rights to drive accessorized, customized and vintage vehicles. Our members, as well as exhibitors and attendees, are always at the forefront of everything SEMA does, whether through our advocacy team in Washington, D.C., SEMA Garage, SEMA Data, SEMA Membership, SEMA Councils & Networks or the SEMA Show," concluded Tompkins. 

Reserve your booth here. SEMA Show organizers will conduct the booth plotting process from April 29 through May 15, after which the first iteration of the 2024 SEMA Show floorplan will be released.

For more information on exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit semashow.com/exhibitor. Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2024 SEMA Show.

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are a few of the latest postings.

TMI Automotive Products

Regional Sales Manager in Corona, California

The regional sales manager will manage accounts in a specific territory within the United States and Canada. The position will be responsible for promoting and creating new sales inside the region to meet sales revenue and profit targets.

Radium Engineering

Order Coordinator in Clackamas, Oregon

Radium Engineering is seeking an order coordinator who will be responsible for the timely management and fulfillment of customer orders. The selected candidate will input all incoming orders into the master inventory software, prepare orders for shipment and more.

Race Winning Brands

Sales Representative in Berea, Ohio

Tasked with reaching CORSA and Volant Performance sales growth objectives, the chosen applicant will provide customer service, promote the company's product lines through direct interaction with customers and provide input in the technical development of products.

By SEMA News Editors

Sumitomo Rubber North America Promotes Wayne Horne to Strategic Account Manager

Sumitomo Rubber North America (SRNA), the parent company of Falken Tires located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, has promoted Wayne Horne to strategic account manager.

Horne has been at SRNA for nearly eight years and held various roles throughout his tenure. Starting in customer service, Horne worked his way up to account manager, where he oversaw all direct passenger-car and light-truck business in the western region, then took on the role of sales strategist for 16 months before being promoted to strategic account manager.

For more information, visit falkentire.com.

Trans Am Names New TA2 Technical Director

The Trans Am Series has named Doug Nagy as its new technical director for the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series, replacing Ricky Brooks.

In his new role, Nagy will lead the technical inspection process, manage the class's rulebook, and serve as a liaison to TA2 teams, chassis manufacturers, vendors, and suppliers.

Nagy comes to Trans Am as an FIA-licensed technical inspector and currently serves as the technical director for the American Rally Association and the chief of tech for King of the Hammers. He previously held positions at Saleen, Bell Motorsports, and Mosler Automotive.

Brooks has served in the role since 2016 and departs the series after being named the general manager of Cordele Motor Speedway.

For more information, visit gotransam.com.

I-CAR Launches RTS Mobile App for Collision Repair Technicians

I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, is introducing a new Repairability Technical Support (RTS) app for mobile devices.

The move expands RTS's former online-exclusive presence to a more accessible platform for industry professionals and will serve as a comprehensive information hub that includes OEM partial part replacement, OEM calibration requirements, technical news and industry best practices.

Through RTS, I-CAR aims to connect with the entire collision repair industry to help close knowledge gaps, access technical best practices, provide clarifications on repair procedures, get the latest updates on emerging technologies, access OEM technical information and respond to the growing technical needs of the industry, organization representatives said.

The RTS app is now available for download on both iPhone and Android devices.

For more information, visit RTS.i-car.com.

Motion Appoints New President

Genuine Parts Company, a distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has appointed James F. Howe as president of Motion, the company's industrial business.

Most recently, Howe served as the executive vice president and chief commercial and technology officer, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate trajectory of Motion. His leadership in overseeing eCommerce, strategic pricing, sales excellence, corporate accounts and human resources has been instrumental in driving the company's success, the announcement said.

In his new capacity, Howe will continue to report to Randy Breaux, Group President, GPC North America.

For more information, visit genpt.com.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is quickly approaching. The government affairs team looks forward to hosting industry advocates in Washington, D.C., on May 8-9. The Washington Rally allows SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. Click here to register for the event (registration closes on April 15). 

By attending the Washington Rally, you will have the opportunity to meet with your members of Congress and their staff, discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation will help ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 

Whether it's combating vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, or protecting motorized access to federal government lands, there are many issues facing SEMA members in the nation's capital. With the 2024 presidential election heating up and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for our members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry! 

SEMA and PRI have a limited number of rooms available at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill for $409 per night, plus tax. The deadline to receive the event rate is April 15, 2024. 

Book your room today! 

Our government affairs team will offer a virtual webinar on April 25 to prepare Washington Rally attendees to lobby their lawmakers. The webinar will highlight key issues and the finer points of meeting with members of Congress. Webinar details will be emailed to registered attendees. If you cannot attend the webinar, we will email the recording to you.

Below is a list of 2024 Washington Rally events (all times ET): 

Wednesday, May 8, 2024  

• 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -- SEMA-PRI PAC Reception* -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace -- Penthouse level 

*A PAC contribution is required to attend in the suggested amount of $250 per individual. If you have already contributed to the SEMA and PRI PAC in 2024, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC Membership Benefits. Please contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org if you have any questions. 

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. -- Washington Rally Congressional Dinner -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 

Thursday, May 9, 2024  

• 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Breakfast and Welcome Briefing -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 
• 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House & Senate Office Buildings 
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. -- Cars at the Capitol Event -- Southwest side of the U.S. Capitol on Maryland Avenue (across from the Botanical Garden) 
• 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. -- Congressional Luncheon -- Capitol Hill Club, Eisenhower Room 
• 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House and Senate Office Buildings 

For more information on the Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is quickly approaching. The government affairs team looks forward to hosting industry advocates in Washington, D.C., on May 8-9. The Washington Rally allows SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. Click here to register for the event (registration closes on April 15). 

By attending the Washington Rally, you will have the opportunity to meet with your members of Congress and their staff, discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation will help ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 

Whether it's combating vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, or protecting motorized access to federal government lands, there are many issues facing SEMA members in the nation's capital. With the 2024 presidential election heating up and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for our members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry! 

SEMA and PRI have a limited number of rooms available at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill for $409 per night, plus tax. The deadline to receive the event rate is April 15, 2024. 

Book your room today! 

Our government affairs team will offer a virtual webinar on April 25 to prepare Washington Rally attendees to lobby their lawmakers. The webinar will highlight key issues and the finer points of meeting with members of Congress. Webinar details will be emailed to registered attendees. If you cannot attend the webinar, we will email the recording to you.

Below is a list of 2024 Washington Rally events (all times ET): 

Wednesday, May 8, 2024  

• 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -- SEMA-PRI PAC Reception* -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace -- Penthouse level 

*A PAC contribution is required to attend in the suggested amount of $250 per individual. If you have already contributed to the SEMA and PRI PAC in 2024, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC Membership Benefits. Please contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org if you have any questions. 

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. -- Washington Rally Congressional Dinner -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 

Thursday, May 9, 2024  

• 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Breakfast and Welcome Briefing -- Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom -- Penthouse level 
• 9:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House & Senate Office Buildings 
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. -- Cars at the Capitol Event -- Southwest side of the U.S. Capitol on Maryland Avenue (across from the Botanical Garden) 
• 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. -- Congressional Luncheon -- Capitol Hill Club, Eisenhower Room 
• 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. -- Meetings with Congressional Representatives -- House and Senate Office Buildings 

For more information on the Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently caught new images of the next-generation Hyundai Palisade testing in northern Sweden, and with seemingly close-to-production bodywork. The images show styling based on the Ioniq line of cars and reportedly will be offered with a hybrid powertrain option. 

While there's plenty of coverings, the front end looks as though it takes a lot from the new Kona and the Hyundai Seven concept, the latter of which previews an upcoming Ioniq electric SUV. It has a tall nose that gently curves over to the hood and large lower headlights that are likely augmented by a thin, full-width light bar.

Other notable features include blacked-out A- and C-pillars that provide a wraparound window appearance, suggesting that the roof will have a floating look like on the new Santa Fe. The back end looks more upright than the current model, according to the images, but still has vertical taillights. 

According to Korean news outlet ETNews, the SUV will be built on a new platform and will offer both a hybrid 2.5-L four-cylinder and a non-hybrid turbocharged 3.5-L V6. ETNews also reported that the new Palisade will be revealed early next year, with production coming the same year. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The Kentucky legislature's Senate Bill (S.B. 215), which restricts the state from adopting California's stricter emissions standards for new vehicles, has become law without Governor Andy Beshear's signature. 

The SEMA-supported law prohibits the state from setting or enforcing regulations on emissions that align with California's plan to phase out the sale of new gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035. 

While not signing the bill, Governor Beshear allowed it to pass into law without his veto. 

"SEMA applauds Governor Beshear's decision to allow SB 215 to become law. This legislation empowers Kentuckians to make informed choices about the vehicles they use for work, transportation and recreation. Kentuckians know their needs best, and this law ensures they have the freedom to select vehicles that fit their budget and lifestyle," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. 

SEMA believes Kentuckians, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families.   

For more information, contact Kiley Chapley at kileyc@sema.org.