Dear Governor Evers:
On behalf of the motorsports industry in the great state of Wisconsin, I write in strong support of AB 880/SB 872, legislation that provides reasonable and predictable legal protections for Wisconsin’s racing facilities against nuisance lawsuits.
SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) represents more than 7,300 small businesses nationwide in the specialty automotive aftermarket, and PRI (Performance Racing Industry) serves the global motorsports marketplace, including racetracks, promoters, sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, and racing teams. In Wisconsin, SEMA is proud to represent 187 member companies located across the state. These are Wisconsin-based manufacturers, retailers, distributors, engine builders, fabricators, and motorsports businesses whose success depends in part on a stable and thriving racing ecosystem.
Motorsports is a significant contributor to Wisconsin’s economy. In Wisconsin alone, the motorsports industry generates $2.5 billion in total economic output, supports 10,601 jobs, and produces $697.92 million in total wages and benefits for Wisconsin workers. The industry also contributes $271.6 million in total state and local taxes paid. These numbers represent small businesses, skilled trades, hospitality workers, and families across the state whose livelihoods depend on the continued operation of racing facilities and related activity.
AB 880/SB 872 provides a balanced, common-sense framework to ensure that racetracks lawfully constructed and operating before surrounding development are not subject to unfair nuisance claims simply because residential growth has moved closer over time. The bill does not shield bad actors or excuse unlawful conduct. Instead, it provides clarity and legal certainty, allowing longstanding facilities to continue operating without the constant threat of litigation that can ultimately force closure.
Across the country, we have seen how the loss of a single racing facility can ripple through a regional economy. Tracks support hotels, restaurants, parts suppliers, repair shops, fuel providers, and numerous other local businesses. Once closed, these facilities rarely reopen. The economic and cultural loss is often permanent.
Wisconsin has a proud motorsports heritage, from grassroots short tracks to nationally recognized venues. AB 880/SB 872 helps preserve that tradition while protecting jobs, investment, and the economic contributions that racing delivers to communities across the state.
For these reasons, we respectfully ask you to sign this bill into law and help us get it across the finish line.
