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Web Reserves

Members of the West Virginia legislature greeted 2014 Hot Rod Power Tour participants during the stop in Charleston.

Make Your Summer a Blockbuster…at Home!

Extend a Warm Welcome to Your Elected Officials

 

State capitols are filled with fresh faces as a result of the midterm election last November. At this point, legislative sessions have begun adjourning across the country. There is no better chance to build new bridges or reinforce existing relationships than when lawmakers return to their home districts for the remainder of the year—especially those new to their seat. Make the most of this opportunity by learning about your state legislators that have chosen to be recognized for their support of the automotive hobby. This esteemed group comprises the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus, represented in each of the 50 states. A nationwide recruiting effort is currently bringing in the newest additions—look for an update on who’s joined in an upcoming story.

Meanwhile, the entire roster of caucus members is posted on the SAN website at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus. Each legislator’s name serves as a direct link to their public webpage, containing contact information at the capitol and home districts. Helpful information such as committee assignments, sponsored-legislation and a short biography are commonly included. The latest state news, comprehensive legislative calendars, leadership listings and other resources are also available. Locate your elected officials on the website under the “Legislators” tab.

Express your gratitude for caucus members representing you by reaching out to say “thanks.” Better yet, invite them to a local car show, club meeting or Collector Car Appreciation Day celebration in July! If you are unable to connect with a lawmaker directly, make an appointment with a staff member. Generally, staffers are the eyes and ears of the legislator and responsible for drafting, recommending or derailing legislation. Best practices on presentation skills in advance of a meeting can be found in the SAN’s “Guide to Lobbying Your Elected Officials” posted at www.semaSAN.com/Lobby.  

Legislative Alerts

SEMA SAN Strike Force

San Diego resident Bill Colford is counted among a huge number of disappointed car and truck enthusiasts in California.  An overwhelming response was received by the community earlier this year requesting action on a bill to exempt motor vehicles manufactured prior to the 1983 model-year from the state’s emissions inspection requirement.  His vintage Corvette (pictured here) falls under the current law, which says all vehicles model-year 1976 and newer must undergo biennial emissions testing.  “I have owned my Corvette since it was new in 1978 and it has never failed a smog check,” says Bill.   “Like most vehicles falling into this small group, it is well maintained and used as a collector vehicle.  I drive it less than 200 miles between smog checks!”  Not surprisingly, this has not been the first proposal in recent years attempting to revise the state’s emissions exemption to benefit our hobby. 
 
When not cruising or showing the ‘Vette, Bill also promotes the restoration of the Honda 600 two-cylinder cars from 1968-1972.  He maintains a website, Honda600owners.com, as well as the Honda 600 Group, for "a group of people that are committed to sustaining the Honda 600 craziness."  He created the free online resources to post “reliable technical information, the location of mechanics that ‘know’ these cars, restoration information and assistance and places for ‘hard-to-find’ parts.”  Notably, the site’s Honda 600 Roster of Owners identifies those located in one's own area.  Additional information and links from the world of Honda Mini cars, including facts and history of the Honda 600, can be found as well.
 
Many thanks for weighing in with lawmakers on the emissions topic, Bill!  Additional support for the measure will be sought statewide for success in the future.

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