SEMA Celebrates Congressional Vote to End EV Mandates

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is celebrating a landmark congressional vote that blocks California’s attempt to enforce a national electric vehicle (EV) mandate, preserving internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle options for American drivers. The Senate vote, following action in the House, marks a major victory for consumer choice and the $100 billion aftermarket industry built on ICE technology.

SEMA hailed the courage of congressional leaders, especially Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson, for resisting what it called a “radical policy” that threatened over 330,000 American jobs.

“This is a victory for freedom, innovation, and common sense,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “Congress has ensured Americans—not bureaucrats—decide what vehicles they drive.”

SEMA emphasized its support for a technology-neutral approach, not anti-EV, and credited its grassroots advocacy efforts—rallying 335 businesses, sending over 56,000 letters, and reaching millions of voters—with turning the tide against California’s Advanced Clean Cars II regulation. Source: SEMA Public Relations