Proposition 65 Changes Are Coming — SEMA Data Is Preparing with You
Regulatory changes are on the horizon, and SEMA Data is taking a proactive approach to help the automotive aftermarket prepare.
California's Proposition 65 (Prop 65) warning requirements are evolving, with updated short-form warning rules taking full effect for newly manufactured products beginning January 1, 2028. The changes place greater emphasis on identifying specific chemicals and ensuring accurate warning information reaches consumers, including those purchasing products online.
For automotive aftermarket suppliers and resellers, this is more than a labeling issue. It is a product data challenge that affects how information is collected, maintained, communicated and ultimately displayed to consumers.
Why does this matter?
When a Proposition 65 warning is required, businesses must ensure consumers receive appropriate information before exposure. Failure to comply can result in enforcement actions, costly litigation and civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation per day. Incomplete or inaccurate information can also create challenges between suppliers, distributors and retail partners.
Not every product requires a warning, but determining when one is necessary and communicating that information correctly is an important responsibility.
SEMA Data Is Getting Ahead of the Changes
Rather than waiting until the new requirements take full effect, SEMA Data is actively evaluating how we can help our industry prepare.
Our efforts are focused on strengthening how Prop 65 information is captured, validated and delivered through our platform. We are also developing guidance to help suppliers understand what information they need to provide and help resellers receive and communicate that information to their customers.
As part of our 2027 Data Excellence Scorecard improvements, we are evaluating how to better recognize the completeness and accuracy of compliance-related product data, including Proposition 65 information.
Working Together Toward a Solution
We recognize that regulatory compliance cannot be solved by technology alone. It requires accurate information from manufacturers, effective communication throughout the supply chain and a coordinated approach across our industry.
SEMA Data is committed to working with our suppliers, resellers and industry partners to identify potential gaps, provide practical guidance and develop solutions that make managing these requirements easier.
More Guidance Is Coming
We will be sharing additional details about our preparations, recommended next steps and planned Scorecard enhancements as we move forward.
Our goal is simple: Help our industry get ahead of regulatory changes, reduce unnecessary complexity and make sure the right product information gets to the right place.
Because better data doesn't just help sell products. It helps protect businesses, build consumer confidence and keep our industry moving forward.
As always, we're here to help if you have questions. Contact us at info@semadata.org.
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