West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell, chairman emeritus of SEMA's State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus, introduced SEMA and PRI-supported legislation that would prevent any state or local government unit from restricting the use or sale of motor vehicles based on the energy source used to power them, including internal combustion engines (ICE). 

In addition, South Dakota has introduced SEMA- and PRI-supported legislation that would prevent any county or city in the state from limiting access to ICE and related technology. The bill awaits consideration by the House Local Government Committee.

West Virginia and South Dakota are the first states to introduce this legislation in the 2024 state legislative sessions but follow seven other states (Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and North Carolina) that have previously passed similar legislation and resolutions. 

PRI believes West Virginia and South Dakota residents, not the government, should be allowed to choose the type of vehicle technology that best serves them and their families. 

Click here to tell West Virginia lawmakers to support internal combustion engines, and click here to tell South Dakota lawmakers to support internal combustion engines. 

For more information, contact SAN@sema.org.