Letter from SEMA

Did you California guys get your letter from SEMA on your e-mail. I would post it but don't quite know how. Doesn't look too good, it's too long for me to try and explain. The mail time was 1:08 PM today. Would like to know what you think about it if you have read it.
Gary

 

can you post it? I would be interested in reading it.

 

Here it is. Pretty scary. What's bad is that the letter doesn't say who is being targeted.
Read on...

SEMA and California Agencies Solve Titling Dilemma for Hobbyist Vehicles​

SEMA, working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Air Resources Board and Attorney General’s office has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves. “This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs. “Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements.”

Over the years, California’s complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations. Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled. SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

“Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA’s charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees,” said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane. “After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created.”

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program. The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010 and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances. Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners that have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles. While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions. Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first come, first served basis. For vehicles with an exemption, a smog test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year. The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year. Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required. California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several OEM engines and related powertrain components (including specifications for the construction of a fuel tank and delivery system) that are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements. GM is currently readying an engine package for this purpose. “In fact, by using one of these engines, it is anticipated that owners of amnesty vehicles will be able to exchange their existing engines for a powertrain that represents the latest in GM’s emissions and performance-related technologies,” commented SEMA Technical Consultant, Jim McFarland. However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the “GreenRod Project” and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle. An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a “retrofit kit” of parts can be installed. Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage 1980 El Camino fitted with a 1986 carbureted, 5.7 liter engine. The 5.7 liter/350 cubic inch displacement small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely-used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.

According to McFarland, “While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements. Variables such as engine condition, accumulated mileage, and related factors affecting emissions from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels. Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle. The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine. It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions which did not reduce power or performance.”

“Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA’s work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment,” said So Cal Speed Shop owner, Pete Chapouris.


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Frequently Asked Questions​

How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?

If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty. Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California, or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle. As a further example, a replica of a 1932 Ford built in 2002 is not a 1932 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program. It is a 2002 vehicle. In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle’s title, it should be corrected.

What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?

If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the State of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony. If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors. Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back-taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle. In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the title to their car. To receive amnesty, any and all back-taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle’s title must be factually corrected.

What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?

Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle. You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form. You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle’s parts and their purchase price. It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle. If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

How much should I expect to pay for the “retrofit” kit? How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?

The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components. On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000. The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000. If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900. GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels. Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I’ve used the correct parts and properly installed them?

GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error. If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts. Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?

The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements. It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles. In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Although these parts enabled SEMA’s project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog check requirements, depending upon variables that include, but limited to the following: mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and a mal-functioning EGR system.

Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?

Yes. California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR Referee station. The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49. If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance. As with any vehicle maintenance, it’s best to use a mechanic you know and trust.

What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?

SEMA and GM will be available to provide some immediate technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process. SEMA has begun communicating with builders of SCVs and engines, enabling them to respond to the most common questions from enthusiasts. SEMA will also compile additional guidance information. These approaches will help expedite solutions to SCV owners seeking to meet California smog-check requirements.
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This does not apply to people with REAL old cars,its pretty clear that it is for the fiberglass kit car type builds.As for the amnesty deal on the false values I dont see how they could prove anything of said values.Unless of course they were able to judge it by when the car was titled first and the values of said bolt on parts at the time.I guess anything is possible.Its a bummer for the aftermarket guys for sure as sales may drop due to it.But then again the laws have not changed this is really only an inforcement tool.At some point the cheaters gotta pay thier dues right?

 

Before anyone goes running into the Badlands or heads South of the border...
This was originally crafted/lobbied in a larger sense by the typical NorCal/SoCal enviro's freaks to get the "Ozone destroying hot rodders" off the roads for good; but due to the struggling economy (caused by those same enviro dips%#ts) assorted state legi's decided it'd be another good "User specific" revenue source for the state.

I got some fairly calming reassurance (from a reliable Cali gov't source) that it mainly goes after the "ground up" builders/buyers, AKA the "Goodguys" 25K plus type of cars. I guess it's not really calming for those guys, but for the average "joe garage" guy that's just hopping up his ride, or reshaping its look, there's a 98 percent chance you'll noticed nothing out of the ordinary.

Bottom line of this legislation is; if you had Shop Build-A-Rod fabricate you a frame up coupe, sedan, or tri-5 with an after market chassis, glass doors-hood-fenders-etc., a $10,000 interior, $15,000 blown motor, and a $15,000 hand rubbed paint job (along with all the other "straw hat" bells and whistles) and then you went and titled it as grandma's OEM vehicle... bend over!
I can guarantee you that the Goodguys shows will become DMV agent heaven!

My source told me (and the person is a vehicle inspector) basically if your driving around in regular old hot rod the only thing you're still going to have to worry about is the locals (P.D.) hitting ya up for safety or noise violation as per the norm.

In a nut shell, if you burnt half your 401k on your "Traditional Rod" here in Cali... better keep it in the garage, and/or stay way away from any Goodguys events.

 

Sounds like our govt, they smell the money and now they're goin to get what they see as their share.

 

Someone doesn't want people playing in big business's domain ...

 

Looks like traditional government extortion to me. This will effect anyone who builds a car from scratch. Doesn't matter if you use "traditional" parts or not.

 

You know, if Cali handen't made it so damn hard to get a hotrod registered in our state people woulden't have to play all the games that we do to get our cars on the road. Hell make it a one time fee and be done with it instead of the thousand flamin' hoops routine that it is right now! Now as for the $100k groundup with no real deal old stuff involved guys that claimed thier cars were worth 500 bux....tough shit dude, maybe you should have been honest and paid your fees (hell you spent a billion dollars building the car) and you woulden't be in this mess. Sorry for the rant but I was at the DMV today!

 

Lemee see.So if I have a real steel ol car as in my 29 Pontiac coupe.

And I put it back together. Will I be targeted by the DMV police?

Its going to have traditional parts on it and not be built at a shop,But in my garage.

Will have a pre 75 SBC. Will I still be smog exempt if I register it this year?

Kind of confused about all this now.

 

Confusion is what our state is all about 35mastr, I love CA but not the politics. I think the real trick to all of this is, build your car and be honest when the time comes to register it. Oh and it helps to know a cop when VIN verfication time comes! Street Rodder did a couple of good articles about registering a groundup hotrod the right way, check your back issues and read up, it was well written and helpful.

 

The spread of rumors by those trying to either scare you into giving up hot rod building and/or are jealous what you have resourced is apparently becoming the worst roadblock. Can you say "Chicken Little syndrome". Like I mentioned, if you're RE-building, RE-storing or customizing a currently registered or non-op vehicle (no matter the year)this bill DOES NOT effect you, although you still have to adhere to current California vehicle code safety and reliabilty standards (and it'll still be up to the P.D. or C.H.P. officer to interrupt it). Also if your engine's excessively smoky you can get a ticket for that.

BUT, all in all; and again this is coming from a very reliable inside Ca. DMV source; The target, and enforcement arm of this legislation, is to get tax monies from the recipients of TOTALLY fabricated vehicles (on AND off-road I might add) that are/have registered the said vehicles as to have been built in the body style OEM year.

Oh, and it doesn't effect those guys that just front clip their vehicles either, so put down that torch.

Finally, if you have purchased or are looking at purchasing a "no title" vehicle your best bet is to ensure that there are either OEM chassis/engine numbers on it for CHP verification or it still has a readable VIN no# on the cowl (or where ever they attached it for that year). And most importantly, to avoid any pain in the a%*, get the vehicle verified and registered (I even had to put insurance on mine) BEFORE you start one shread of building.

 

This same thing didn't last long this morning....watch the politics....
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=416804

 

Um ... wasn't there another thread about this same subject earlier today that was already closed?

 

THIS APPLIES TO SPECIAL CONSCTRUCTION TITLES.

if your car is titled age appropriate this does not apply to you.

thanks.

 

Wow,do you realize when it says kit cars,they are referring to fiberglass rods?

This has been going on for a while,and isn't anything new.Basically,the law they want to pass says you can't register a kit car as the original model it was made to represent,just like Special Construction bikes. You would have to title a fiberglass 32 model A as a 2010-1932 Model A replica or kit car.That's what these smog legal motor accessories are aimed at also.

 

Bingo!

 

The search thread function is here for a reason.
Just sayin.

 

It's like Deja vu, all over again...and, reported...

 

It was bound to happen.

You build a "new" car with all "new" parts, then it better meet "new" car emissions.

Rich

 

Its a hobby !!!! New parts are made by guys in their own small shops,not factories !!! Its not smart or practical to make any hobby car meet the same regulations as the OEM car manufacturers. You may say let the other guys fall but even with all the car clubs combined we are a small group ! You better stick together or we ALL LOSE !!!!! Im tired of this US VERSES YOU CRAP !!!!!

 

i can only imagine how bad that bill would have looked had SEMA NOT helped.

 

they closed the thread on this same thing this morning

dont drag ..the big "P" into it or it will get closed..

even if it is all about the big"P"..and how it will "F" with those who have built SCV's

 

I didn't say that I agreed with it, just that it was inevitable.

It's sure gunna be a kick in the nads for all the "new" vintage Fords built in CA.

Rich

 

Hey,

And lets stay outa the political arena here , it is what it is and it will be what it will be...............

Given California's pending sweeping vehicle registration and equipment law changes, and no, these won't only tap the guys drivin' plastic '32s & the guys with glass Willys or Cobras! If you're driving a 1928 A Bomb with a sbc, a T10 & a Ford nine inch, guess what? you arn't driving a 1928 Ford as registered, in the state of California!
My question is what are you gonna do about it? Will you leave the state to find one alittle moe "hot rod" frendly, or hang up the hobby and take up golf?

Me wonders?
Swanky Devils C.C.
"It's time for another Tea Party! "

 

Hummm, the rust free, original Texas titled, 32 tudor that I have for sale...just went up in value....at least in Kalifornia.

This sure seems like a "radical" solution to "hobbyist cars", that aren't racking up the miles(polution production) of thier "late model cousins".

 

I'm thinking the folks in CA had better start raising hell about this proposal and we'd better help them. This bill/amendment/proposal (whatever it is) will be the death of us because it will open the door to DMV making a judgement decision about your rod. You say it is targeted to 'kit cars' but once passed it is an amendment away from any car, what i see happening here is the state reclassifying any old car that has had so much as a carburator change, fining you and making the penalties retro-active. The minute anybody walks into DMV and does this amnesty thing and pays the back taxes, penalties etcetc every state legislature in the country will look at that and go hmmm.
You might think i am a 'doom and gloomer' but the government has shown over and over that they will pursue aggressively to the maximum extent of the law, and they just wrote the law. SEMA is selling you out. Look whom they represent. They even have a package from GM to help you. Look what they are really doing, how much do you drive the old hot rod and contribute to the emissions? Think about it. A couple hours a week? 30-40 weeks a year? Thats nothing, probably totals less than a city bus in one day!
Make a stand here guys! Enough! The government has gone too far, start some kind of campaign, i'll do whatever i can to help. Thanks oj

 

anyone want to buy a non titled 29' model a coupe body. It just hit the market today.

 

Rip out the sbc and replace with SBF...................drop the T10 and go with Top Loader...Now it's all Ford............................of which it should have been from the begining.
Oh Yes, get out my trusty set of number/letter punches and put the frame serial number in the block/trans/rearend.............................This is since the car is titled as a 31 Model A today..............