SEMA Model Bills

Templates to provide state legislators and local council members

Street Rod/Custom Vehicle SEMA-Model Bill: Special titling and registration designations for street rods and customs, including replicas and kit cars, has led to an easing of certain equipment standards and exemptions from stringent emission testing -- allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the auto hobby legally and providing more business opportunities to industry.  This SEMA model bill has been enacted into law in 22 states to date.   

Exhaust Noise SEMA-Model Bill: Through this language, motorists who drive vehicles legally equipped with modified exhaust systems can confirm that they comply with a measurable exhaust noise standard.  This SEMA model bill has been enacted into law in California (2002), Maine (2003), and Montana (2007).

Inoperable Vehicle SEMA-Model Bill: Hobbyists can protect their vehicles from confiscation by providing legislators and council members with this language, which states that project vehicles and their parts must be stored outside of ordinary public view.  Frequently adapted for use in city and county ordinances, this SEMA model bill has been enacted into state law in Kentucky (2005).

Nitrous Oxide SEMA-Model Bill: In response to proposals that aimed to ban the nitrous oxide systems, SEMA drafted model language that provides for the operation of a vehicle equipped with nitrous oxide, so long as the nitrous oxide is disconnected (or canisters removed) from the engine while the vehicle is being operated on public roadways.  This SEMA model bill has been enacted into law in Nebraska (2002), Georgia (2002), Maine (2003), Arkansas (2005), Virginia (2004), Tennessee (2006), Mississippi (2010) and the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island (2010).