Assemblyman Gaines forms Automotive Study Group

California Legislative Automotive Study Group

SACRAMENTO –Assemblyman Ted Gaines, R-Roseville, today announced he has formed the California Legislative Automotive Study Group, an informal caucus that will work to protect and raise awareness of the state’s automotive industry and the jobs it creates.

The bipartisan group is made of more than a dozen legislators from both houses. Felipe Fuentes, D-Sylmar, will serve as co-chair of the group along with Assemblyman Gaines.

‘Cars impact the lives of each and every one us, as well as our state’s economic and environmental success,’ Gaines said. ‘It is imperative that we as a Legislature do whatever we can to promote a growing auto industry in California that will bring jobs and opportunity back to our state.’

The Group will work to explore new environmentally friendly technologies and innovations, including hybrid, electric and zero-emission vehicles.

Gaines said auto sales generate billions in state tax revenue in not just the sales, but registration, fees and payroll taxes as well.

Also, in California, there is an even larger secondary market of auto enthusiasts and off-roading that generates millions in after-market upgrade, care and performance in addition to related travel and entertainment.

Gaines pointed out the significant impact the auto industry has on our state’s economy:

• California ranks second in the nation for the highest number of auto-related jobs with more than 190,000
• After market and off-road vehicle sales, parts and service account for an additional 200,000+ jobs in California
• More motor vehicles are sold in California than in any other state
• In most California cities, more than one quarter of all tax revenues come from auto sales and related tax incomes

Assemblyman Mike Duvall, R-Yorba Linda, said he is excited to start work with the group.

‘I am elated that Ted has put the California Legislative Automotive Study Group together, and am really looking forward to participating in the group’s work,’ Duvall said. ‘As the recently-named chair of SEMA’s national State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus and as a lifelong auto and motorcycle hobbyist, I think it is crucial that we have a bipartisan group of legislators in Sacramento focused on the issues and needs of these vital industries.’

The California Legislative Automotive Study Group will also bring auto industry leaders together with members of the study group.

‘I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle and both sides of the Legislature to find ways we can protect and bring more jobs to the industry,’ Gaines said. ‘The impact the auto industry has on California is something we can all relate to. And its something we can all work together to protect.’

Assemblyman Ted Gaines represents the 4th Assembly District, which includes portions of Placer, El Dorado, Sacramento & Alpine counties.