WASHINGTON – Today, Senators Richard Burr (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Dean Heller (R-NV) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2016, or the RPM Act, which will prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from cracking down on amateur race car mechanics and hobbyists. The rule proposed last year by the EPA runs counter to existing law and Congressional intent, and it would threaten the very existence of amateur motorsports in the United States.  The RPM ACT will keep the Obama administration from yet another federal overreach of its regulatory powers.  

“For decades, Congresses and previous Administrations have made it clear that the EPA does not have the authority to regulate racing vehicles, but that hasn’t stopped Obama’s EPA from trying,” said Senator Burr. “The EPA is attempting to tell the American people what they can do with their own cars, even though there is a deep tradition of hobbyists who have chosen to upgrade their vehicles for their own personal enjoyment, even when they are removed from public roads. This is Obama’s nanny state at its worst, and it’s a direct threat to amateur motorsports in the country.”

“The EPA is again attempting to overstep its authority; this time to regulate one of our nation’s most beloved traditions - motorsports,” said Senator Capito, a member of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. “From local tracks to family garages across the state, West Virginia’s passion for American motorsports runs deep. This legislation will put the brakes on an out of control EPA and protect racecar enthusiasts in West Virginia and nationwide.”

“Having been surrounded by amateur motorsports my entire life, this latest overreach by the Administration continues to serve as a testament to the lengths the EPA will go to regulate Americans,” said Senator Heller.  “Congress never intended for the EPA to regulate vehicles used solely for competition, especially ones used exclusively for racing. As a race car driver, mechanic, and automotive enthusiast, this legislation will allow many hobbyists to continue doing what we love and enjoy.”

“Competitive motorsports has a long and storied history in North Carolina and I am pleased to support this commonsense legislation that will stop the continued and unnecessary federal overreach by the EPA,” said Senator Tillis.

A companion bill, HR 4715, was introduced in the House of Representatives this week.

The Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2016 would prevent the EPA from cracking down on amateur race car mechanics and hobbyists and reaffirms what Congress’ position has always been on the regulation of vehicles used solely for competitive purposes.