[Jim Wahl]

After signing the petition, I received this response from my Senator:


Dear Mr. Wahl,
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Thank you for taking the time to express your thoughts regarding the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act of 2017 (S. 203).* Understanding your views helps me better represent Florida in the United States Senate, and I appreciate the opportunity to respond.
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Under a now withdrawn proposed rule, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was attempting to regulate racecars as motor vehicles under the Clean Air Act.* The proposed rule would have regulated the alteration of streetcars into racecars and prevented the sale of aftermarket emissions-related parts.* This regulatory change ran counter to historical Congressional intent which consistently excluded “vehicles solely used for competition” from regulation under the Clean Air Act.**
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In response to the EPA’s proposed rule, on January 24, 2017, Senator Burr (R-NC) introduced S. 203. If enacted, the legislation would reiterate that the EPA cannot regulate vehicles used solely for competition (racecars); clarify that modifying a street vehicle into a racecar has always been legal; and state that modifications of these vehicles are not considered exhaust tampering.* This legislation has been referred to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.* The same legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC), and has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.*
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*********** Even though the EPA withdrew this proposed rule, clarifications under S. 203 would prohibit the agency from proposing the same rule in the future, or regulating industry activities.*
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As a Floridian, I understand the importance of the automotive industry and racing as a great American pastime.* The EPA’s attempt to regulate racecars as motor vehicles would place an unnecessary burden on racing hobbyists across this nation.* For this reason, I am a proud cosponsor of the legislation.* Please know that I will keep your thoughts in mind as the bill advances through the legislative process.*
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It is an honor and a privilege to serve you as your United States Senator. I will keep your thoughts in mind as I consider these issues and continue working to ensure America remains a safe and prosperous nation.
*

Sincerely,

Marco Rubio
United States Senator