Protecting Grassroots Racing: Inside SEMA’s Right to Race Campaign

Guest: Karen Bailey-Chapman

Senior Vice President of Public & Government Affairs
SEMA & PRI

In This Episode We Discuss:

·       What SEMA and PRI do year-round

·       The “Right to Race” campaign

·       Nuisance laws and racetrack protection

·       Legislative efforts in Michigan and other states

·       Tax depreciation for track upgrades

·       Bringing lawmakers to SEMA Show

·       Why accessibility is key to motorsports growth

·       Rebel Rally and women in off-road racing

·       The future of grassroots motorsports

Key Takeaways

• Racetracks are businesses that need protection
• Advocacy starts at the local level
• Relationships matter in politics and motorsports
• Accessibility and invitation grow the sport

Connect:

SEMA Action Network (SAN)
PRI Show
Women’s Motorsports Network

Protecting Grassroots Racing: Inside SEMA’s Right to Race Campaign

Grassroots racing is the heartbeat of American motorsports. But across the country, racetracks are facing increasing challenges from development, nuisance complaints, and expiring tax incentives.

In this episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast, Karen Bailey-Chapman, Senior VP of Public & Government Affairs for SEMA and PRI, explains how advocacy efforts are protecting tracks nationwide.

The Growing Challenge for Racetracks

Many tracks were built decades ago on the outskirts of towns. As cities expand, residential developments move closer — and noise complaints follow.

The Right to Race legislation aims to protect racetracks from being shut down by new neighbors who moved in after the track was established.

States like Iowa and North Carolina have already passed protections — and Michigan is currently active in legislative discussions.

Why This Matters

Racetracks:

·       Support local economies

·       Provide safe racing environments

·       Serve as community gathering spaces

·       Offer youth entry points into motorsports

Without policy protection, many smaller tracks could disappear.

The Business Side of Racing

Operating a racetrack is expensive. Infrastructure upgrades, safety improvements, and facility maintenance require investment.

SEMA is also working to reinstate accelerated depreciation tax benefits for track improvements — helping operators reinvest in their facilities.

The Future Is Bright

Despite challenges, Karen believes motorsports has strong momentum — fueled by NASCAR, F1’s growth in the U.S., off-road events like King of the Hammers, and inclusive events like the Rebelle Rally.

The key? Accessibility. Invitation. Advocacy.

Motorsports isn’t dying — it’s evolving.