The Environmental Protection Agency has recently allowed manufacturers to sell auto parts in 49 states that do not comply with California’s stringent environmental regulations.
According to an advisory from the EPA, manufacturers can now provide evidence of compliance with the federal Clean Air Act through the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s Emissions Certification Program, without needing prior approval from California regulators. This shift seems significant. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin commented, “Americans should not have to rely solely on California for the certification of aftermarket products. Now, they can trust that products certified by SEMA meet federal standards and are safe for vehicle repairs.”
Alongside, EPA Deputy Administrator Jeffrey Hall explained, “The tampering policy outlines how aftermarket products can prove they don’t adversely affect vehicle emissions. Eligible vehicles that have these products must pass the same emissions tests required by the original equipment manufacturers under the Clean Air Act.” This statement was part of a letter to SEMA’s CEO, Mike Spagnola.
According to resources from SEMA, the EPA’s Tampering Policy gives aftermarket manufacturers the guidance they need to meet reasonable emissions compliance standards. They indicated that testing similar to what California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates is acceptable for certification.
CARB, as many know, focuses on addressing climate change and establishing strict vehicle standards in California.
In an assertion that emphasizes industry support, a spokesperson noted, “President Trump’s commitment to revitalizing the American auto industry is strong, bringing in hundreds of billions of dollars in new investments, supporting jobs, and enhancing consumer choices. The aftermarket sector plays a crucial role, and the EPA is proud to uphold the President’s policies for small businesses producing aftermarket parts.”
While the EPA received a request for comment regarding this matter, there wasn’t an immediate response.
Commenting on the developments, Aaron Stewart, the vice president of engineering at Holley Group, expressed gratitude towards the EPA’s actions to aid the automotive aftermarket. He highlighted the importance of accepting SEMA certified emissions, stating it represents a vital advancement that enables manufacturers to create clean, compliant products for consumers to repair and modify their vehicles.
Adding to the conversation, Opus Intelligent Vehicle Support CEO Brian Herron reflected on his background as an automotive enthusiast. He expressed that the EPA’s recognition of SEMA certified emissions is a real and meaningful advancement. He also emphasized the necessity for clear pathways for businesses to demonstrate compliance, while continuing to innovate for consumers.
Concerns were raised by Department of Atmospheric and Radiation Undersecretary Aaron Szabo regarding CARB’s approaches, suggesting that California may be overstepping by imposing standards that could limit consumer choices in favor of electric vehicles that may not meet public demand.
A Supreme Court ruling in June 2025 had previously mitigated procedural barriers for the Trump administration’s approaches, following a decision regarding California’s emissions standards and their challenges from fuel producers.
