SEMA President Mike Spagnola on EV Mandates, Right to Repair, and California’s Automotive Laws

SEMA President Mike Spagnola on EV Mandates, Right to Repair, and California’s Automotive Laws

Author: Braxton Critcher June 25, 2025 Duration: 40:44

Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HERE

If your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!


In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of SEMA. Mike offers an insider’s update on three major issues currently shaping the automotive industry. First, he shares the details behind SEMA’s victory in overturning California’s EV sales mandate, arguing for consumer choice and innovation in vehicle technology. Second, Mike breaks down the latest progress of "Leno’s Law," aimed at easing smog checks for California’s classic car owners. Finally, the discussion turns to the Right to Repair Act, with Mike emphasizing the importance of consumer access to vehicle data and repair options, and predicting what’s next for this critical legislation.

Register for SEMA 2025 HERE

00:00 Advocates for Consumer Vehicle Choice

04:22 Rushed Implementation Concerns

08:21 "Free Market Reshapes Automotive Industry"

12:42 Smog Testing Challenges for Vintage Cars

16:21 Right to Repair Act Update

17:27 "Right to Repair and Modify"

22:23 Advocacy for Upcoming Legislation Crescendo

26:09 "Ensuring Vehicle Modifications and Safety"

29:55 Fiat's Global Mobility and Tourism Division

31:20 Global Automotive Tech Innovations

35:25 Local Enthusiasts Influence Auto Show

37:43 Convenient Hotel Stay Despite Congestion

40:32 Pressure vs. Pleasure Conversation


Braxton Critcher hosts Automotive Repair News Today, a podcast that feels like a direct line to the shop floor and the latest industry developments. It sits at a unique crossroads, blending the hands-on passion of a leisure project with the sharp insights needed for automotive business. Each episode digs into current stories and shifts within the repair world, moving beyond just technical manuals to explore the real people and innovative practices moving the field forward. You’ll hear straightforward discussions about operational changes, emerging tools, and the positive stories that often go unreported. This isn't about dry announcements; it's a conversation for shop owners, technicians, and enthusiasts who care about the craft's future. As part of the Changing The Industry family, this podcast focuses on actionable news and constructive dialogue, offering a grounded perspective you can use whether you're under a hood or running a service desk. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at where auto repair is headed next.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Automotive Repair News Today
Podcast Episodes
Right To Repair Update, SEMA/AAPEX Registration Opens and More! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:59
In this episode, Braxton starts with a confession. Evidently, keeping good care of tires is not his strong suit. He then talks about legislative updates on the REPAIR Act (HR 1566) and the latest advocacy efforts in Cali…
Meet Lauren Langston | Tekmetric's New COO [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:18
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, you'll get…
Tariffs, Tire Scams, and the Repair Act! Trial Format As Well! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:37
In this episode, we cover all the things YOU NEED TO KNOW about the automotive repair industry. From the rise in tire scams affecting New Hampshire auto shops, to the progress of the Repair Act in Congress. Braxton Critc…
Hockey Legend Wayne Gretzky Headlines AAPEX 2025 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:35
In this episode of Auto Repair News Today, Braxton talks about the announcement of Wayne Gretzky as the keynote speaker for Apex 2025! He brings up current challenges in the automotive repair industry, such as evolving t…
Ryan Ragan | Changes at ASTA? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:42
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Ryan Ragan is the Executive…