In 1997, the SEMA Action Network (SAN) was created with the goal of protecting every niche of the automotive hobby against unfair laws and regulations. Since its inception, SAN has seen the coming of a new digital era in which SAN members rely heavily on email, social networking, and the World Wide Web to access information. To keep pace with these changes, SAN has streamlined its website, www.semasan.com, to make it easier than ever for SAN members to find the information they need to help protect their passion.
As you know, SAN is a nationwide partnership between enthusiasts, vehicle clubs and members of the specialty automotive parts industry who have joined forces to promote hobby-friendly legislation and oppose unfair laws. With over 60,000 North American members, SAN is the premier organization defending the rights of vehicle enthusiasts. SAN is free to join with no obligations or commitments.
"No other organization brings such a comprehensive set of tools and resources directly to hobbyist's computers," said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. "Our intent with the new website design was to make these resources more easily accessible to the thousands of vehicle enthusiasts who rely on the SEMA Action Network daily for updates on threats and opportunities facing the hobby."
Resources featured on the streamlined www.semasan.com include:
* Up-to-the minute action alerts with bill information, speaking points, and legislator contact information.
* Archived breaking news items for a comprehensive overview of SAN efforts.
* Digital copies of the SAN's award winning monthly legislative newsletter - Driving Force.
* State-by-state tracked legislation.
* Guidance on federal and state issues, including land use, warranty denial, emissions inspections, ethanol, scrappage, and much more.
* "Tag & Title Toolbox" - a one-stop shop for state resources listing each state's specialty vehicle definitions, registration and titling provisions, forms, inspection criteria and other requirements and exemptions.
Printable pro-hobby model legislation crafted by SAN staff.
Information on legislators who support the automotive hobby through the Congressional Motorsports Caucus and the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus.
* An automated tool for identifying and contacting your federal, state, and local representatives.
A guide to lobbying your elected officials.
In its 15-year history, the effect of the SAN on shaping government policy has been enormous. Thanks to you, the SAN has successfully enacted street rod and custom vehicle (including kit cars and replicas) registration and titling laws in 22 states; protected classic vehicles waiting to be restored on private property from confiscation; defended enthusiast's right to use more durable aftermarket exhaust systems; junked state level "Cash for Clunkers" legislation; advocated to ensure public lands remain open to responsible off-road recreation and enacted legislation to lower taxes and fees for hobbyist vehicles, among many other things.
The current economic and legislative environment is emboldening governments to become more aggressive with their anti-auto hobby legislation. States are seeking new avenues for generating revenue and new ways of dictating what you can and cannot do with your vehicles. The message government is sending is clear - the hobby needs the SEMA Action Network now more than ever.
If you aren't already a member, enlist now in this fellowship of auto enthusiasts. Join the SAN at www.SEMASAN.com