Michigan Attorney General Opposes EPA Restrictions on Racing Vehicles

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is asking the Environmental Protection Agency to remove language from a proposal which would restrict the modification of engines and emission control devices in racing vehicles.

The proposed rule expansion, which is also opposed by Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, says that motor vehicle engines and their emission control devices must remain in their certified configuration, even if they are nonroad or racing vehicles.

The rule states that motor vehicles’ engines and emission control devices must remain in their standard configuration “even if they are used solely for competition.”

Schuette says, this is in direct conflict with the Federal Clean Air Act which excludes vehicles built or modified for racing purposes from regulation.

“Racing is a tradition in America and Michigan is home to a thriving racing community,” said Schuette. “In addition to race tracks and demolition derbies across the state, this rule would affect businesses whose livelihood is manufacturing and selling competition engines and racing products that could be deemed illegal under this rule change. There is little doubt the rule change will impact jobs and tax revenue and threaten Michigan’s rebounding economy.”

In 2014, consumers in the United States spent $36 billion on automotive specialty equipment parts accessories.