It is clear from the constant stream of anti-automobile enthusiast legislation across the country that, in order for the automotive hobbies to survive the present, let alone flourish in the future, hobbyists must work toward becoming more politically involved and effective.

To help in this effort, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the SEMA Action Network (SEMA's car club and individual enthusiast outreach program) offer this guide to becoming a more politically effective auto enthusiast community. Our goals are simple. For our way of life to survive, hobbyists must:

• Adopt a positive attitude about politics, politicians and government;
• Build strong relationships with elected officials;
• Educate elected officials and staff on the car hobby: who is involved and why we are important; and
• Become a positive, involved and vibrant part of our communities.

Most importantly, hobbyists must learn to work the system. Auto enthusiasts and clubs must learn to lobby.

Specifically included in this guide are guidelines on how to properly prepare for and meet with elected officials, the best and worst ways to contact a legislator on issues of concern and a discussion about how you, as a hobbyist or car club member, can become more politically aware.

We hope you find this guide informative and useful.

For more information, contact the SEMA Action Network at san@sema.org

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PHONING YOUR LEGISLATORS BECOME A POLITICALLY ACTIVE AND EFFECTIVE VEHICLE ENTHUSIAST COMMUNITY LETTERS AND OTHER WRITTEN COMMUNICATION MEETING WITH LEGISLATORS