UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. -- BASF Corporation rolled out the red carpet for an invitation only event at Universal Studios in Los Angeles in late March. The paint supplier used an evening panel discussion to explain air quality rule changes that will impact the region beginning in July 2008. Attending were shop customers and jobbers from California and some neighboring states.

Two California air districts – South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District – have passed rules requiring reductions in volatile organic compound (VOC) levels. To comply with the new rules shops in the region will be required to replace solvent-based refinish coatings with waterborne varieties by Jan. 1, 2009.

It’s unclear how this wholesale change will impact shops in California and elsewhere, as experts believe similar rules will be adopted in other parts of the U.S. over the next few years.

BASF used the panel to address the changes in the two California districts and to answer any concerns voiced by attendees. The panel was moderated by Chuck Sulkala, executive director of the National Auto Body Council; and included Naveen Berry from Planning and Rule Development of the SCAQMD; BASF Director of Training and Development Jay Johnston and BASF Regional Manager Dave Brez; William Venables, Material Damage Process Manager-Westof AIG Personal Lines Claims; Tim Cusic, Chief Operating Officer of Marco's Auto Body; and Rick Leos, Managing Partner & CFO Autocraft of Torrance and Rosecrans Auto Body.

The event also featured entertainment from actor/comedian Christopher Titus.