visit california star program

Stand Out as a California Expert—and STAR

The newly redesigned california star platform helps travel advisors serve travelers with intuitive programming..

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A stretch of California’s 840 miles of gorgeous shoreline

With so many Americans embracing domestic travel over the past two years, the chance to see more of the U.S. and skip the hassle of flying internationally is sustaining the trend of closer-to-home trips. California stands out as a destination that offers the charms of far-flung destinations: Mediterranean weather, cities with world-renowned culture and cuisine, and breathtaking nature that encompasses mountains, forests, deserts, and ocean. With summer planning in full swing, now’s the time for U.S. travel advisors to brush up on all that the Golden State has to offer.

The Golden State’s range of geographic features includes opportunities for winter sports.

Trevor Clark/Visit California

California STAR , a trade-focused platform, informs and educates on all things California to help advisors serve clients. Through training, interactive sales components, and marketing collateral such as royalty-free images, the STAR program transforms agents into expert brand ambassadors with everything they need to deliver unforgettable vacations. Discover a world of opportunities, from desert resorts, beaches, and skiing to Michelin-starred restaurants, nightlife adventures, and epic road trips—all the ways that California can fit any vacation vibe, from laid-back luxury to family fun.

Superpower your service and sales

Alabama Hills, CA

STAR’s platform is divided into three sections. The first, “Essentials,” provides a strong foundation of knowledge about California’s demographics, gateways, and regions. Specialization modules dive deeper into specific travel themes such as road trips, culinary, health and wellness, family fun, sports, shopping, culture, and outdoor activities. Advisors can also delve into 19 California Partner mini-modules featuring some of the state’s most-visited cities and most-engaged visitor bureaus.

Once advisors complete the training modules, they can revisit the information in the “Retain” section, a go-to resource for expert knowledge that amps up your sales efforts. Pre-populated marketing materials in the Promote section are designed to help start the conversation with clients and prospects.

And finally, advisors can rely on the “Sell” section to answer client questions and close the deal.

In addition to the foundational training, the Visit California STAR Specialist Program acts as an everyday sales assistant and companion to help advisors retain control of the travel conversation—and sell more. One example is how advisors can easily share preselected content including videos, images, brochures, and itineraries on social channels or with clients. A product showcase and directory details hoteliers, tours, and attractions that match client preferences, and provides sales tools to empower better client conversations and convert more bookings, whenever and wherever the sales opportunity presents itself.

Introducing a new experience, from head-to-toe

A stunning view of Los Angeles

The STAR program also benefits from a recent makeover. In September 2021, all 11 training chapters were redesigned with a fresh, evergreen feel that’s more reflective of the current travel environment. All chapters have new content, images, videos, and quiz questions.

STAR also improved the program’s training tool. The format of the training page now has a more intuitive layout, categorizing modules into essential and specialized, and incentivizes advisors with gold, silver, and bronze stars. Updates were also translated for nine international sites, and with the CA STAR App (available for iOS and Android), advisors can access information from any device, anywhere in the world.

In the past six years, CA STAR received 23,786 global registrations. Of those, more than 11,000 have graduated from the training program. Now, these agents can book extended California visits thanks to their fluency in California’s world-renowned museums and attractions, distinctive natural and architectural landmarks, trendsetting restaurants and shops, and buzzworthy hotels and resorts.

To book more and more memorable trips to the No. 1 destination in the U.S., a CA STAR certification is nothing less than indispensable.

B2B Partner Programs

Share your story with current specialists and active california sellers.

Current Partners

The California STAR Specialists program is back and better than ever, now available in 14 global markets worldwide, including: US, Canada, Mexico, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Scandinavia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, Middle East, and China. With the California STAR Sales Companion™ platform, 30,000 global travel advisors have mobile app access to the very best tools, content, and collateral to not just Specialize, but enable them to sell more of California, more frequently, for years to come Packed with 100’s of ‘one-tap’ shareable video’s, brochures, itineraries, and PDFs the STAR Sales Companion™ makes it even easier for STAR advisors to tee up STAR partner experiences with their clients preferences, driving more bookings from Yreka to Calexico. You can gain access to a global network of advisors with a simple subscription. Thanks to Visit California's continual marketing investments, new advisors are joining every day. And with TravPRO's full-service production, you'll save time and effort while making the most of this opportunity. As the go-to California B2B resource for advisors worldwide, this platform is often the only translated resource available. Being visible on this platform can significantly increase your chances of being considered by these advisors. Internationally it's crucial to have a strong presence in the core resources sellers are leaning on. And on the flipside, a lack of presence sends a different message to sellers many times.. Check out our two simple subscription options below. Choose between (1) MicroLearning & Showcase Bundle Subscription or (2) Showcase Only Subscription to start tapping into these very active California STAR’s. Thank you for considering Visit California's premier global program.

PARTNER OPTIONS

Opportunity 1 Premium B2C Marketing “Showcase” (Global Marketing ONLY) The B2B2C Marketing Showcase is the ultimate tool for travel advisors to share your business with clients globally. With one subscription, you can reach sellers in 14 different markets. This immersive digital distribution microsite features high-quality videos, stunning images, informative PDFs, detailed itineraries, and exclusive offers - all designed to amplify your story. Advisors can readily share the entire showcase via link or individual collateral with just one tap. With real-time updates, your best offerings will always be in the spotlight, giving you exposure to potential clients from around the world. It's the perfect way to showcase your business to an international audience of advisors and travelers alike. TravPRO will help you produce your initial showcase for launch, and after that, you'll have full control with our easy-to-use CMS. This allows you to update and swap out collateral anytime you need. Ready to take your B2B strategy to new heights in ‘23 and connect with advisors from 14 active markets? Check out our quick Showcase explainer video to see how it can make you shine and get in front of more travelers through their trusted advisor.

Sales Companion Highlights:

Downloaded to Device

Forget buffering and stuttered playback with web quality video. Everything resides on the device.

Today’s content needs

Easily digested content for on–the-go or at home, and in today’s preferred media types.

No URL’s, Passwords or WIFI

Reducing friction and barriers to your best sales information.

Unique Content

Unique content to bring added perspective, hear from other experts with relevant tips, or entertain with mini games.

Real-Time Directory & Showcase

LIVE searchable directory of your private sector and products, with real-time offers and two-way communication with agents.

Downloaded to the Device

Forget the buffering and stuttered playback world of the Internet. Everything resides on the device for instant access, anytime, anywhere

Real-Time Directory & Booking Channel

LIVE directory of private sector partners for destinations featuring real-time two-way communication. For private sector partners, direct integration of booking engines and itinerary planners.

Links with Existing Tools

Easily integrates with existing training, rewards, CRM and other platforms to unify and extend reach, and ROI for those investments.

Adaptive Content

Supports meaningful, personalized content for the individual user, easily accessed within one tap at all times.

Discover, Share, Collaborate

Great content wants to be shared, and small bites means more sharing. Share anything, quickly and easily.

Creating Instant Experts

All selling content is aggregated in the toolbox for point of sale usage to help agents convert more frequently…no wifi, no Internet required.

The opportunity for you as a supplier or visitors bureau (cvb) is simple. The Showcase and Directory is a searchable basic listing of all California destinations, accommodations, tours, activities and transport partners for agents to explore and discover options to match their client’s preferences. Those suppliers who wish to shine a brighter spotlight on themselves by having a microsite to tell their story, host current videos and brochures and communicate and broadcast real-time offers and inspiration to agents worldwide, have the opportunity to be first of mind whenever California is being booked and build direct relationships with producers worldwide.

B2C Marketing Showcase

A premium global micro-site omnipresent across the platform with access from center of the home screen, the sales toolbox as a tile and the B2B directory within the STAR program. A fantastic way for sellers to find, discover and connect with California Industry Partners. Includes:

• Logo, Icon Images, Product/Destination overview (500 words), Key contact information, Google Map location
• Upload up to 6 Video’s and 8 Brochures at a time - swap out anytime
• Links to Social Media, Review Sites, URL’s and Booking Engine
• Trade promotion or offer (also featured in the search results)
• Password protected admin access
• Available in all active global STAR markets
• KPI Reporting -Total and Monthly: # Searches returned in results, total clicks, video views, brochure views/downloads
• Global Reach: Browser translated globally
• Translated United States, Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France (Includes Spanish, French and German Translations).

Pricing: $3,600 Annually ($22 / Month / Market)

Training is the most effective way to engage new advisors and inspire them to sell YOU. This is where you can win them over to your sales cause and get on their shortlist of recommendations. MicroLearning and Showcase bundle maximizes productivity from this large group of advisors with minimal effort on your part. Our MicroLearning modules are specifically designed to engage advisors new to your business. These singular modules cover essential information in a condensed time frame, making them ideal for training. By completing your MicroLearning Module, advisors earn a badge within the California STAR platform, showcasing their expertise to their clients. And new for 2023, your module will also be featured as a stand-alone microlearning within TheSOURCE SuperApp, giving you even more exposure to new advisors across North America. This is a fully turnkey opportunity, with TravPRO leading creative production and providing full CMS controls for updating and swapping out collateral. Plus, our dedicated Client Success manager is always available to help you post-launch. Join the global network of California Industry Partners and engage advisors with our powerful MicroLearning Modules. Check out our quick explainer video below and get started today!

Instructional Design & Balance

Short-form, 30-second burst media, and a better balance of experiential media to anchor learning.

Dynamic Assessment

Learning made Fun! Move beyond numbing multiple choice, and benefit from additional content reinforcement beyond ‘correct/incorrect.’.

Shorter Chapters

Train in 15-minute intervals, and convert more registrants to graduates. Think Coursels, or course morsels.

Expedited Registration

Nothing kills the performance of a training strategy quicker than a lengthy registration and onboarding path. We get agents training within 1 minute.

Cross- Device Native Style

We produce three separate versions of the training. Apple devices, Android devices, and Web to maximize the training potential of each device.

Expand Your Audience

Playing into the current content and device preferences will allow you to maximize reach, registrations and conversion of motivated graduates.

The opportunity for YOU is to increase awareness and understanding of your product with these highly qualified and targeted California Expert graduates, via your own training module to most effectively share your specific sales information.

B2B Advisor MicroLearning

Your Training module will be actively promoted and visible to all learners for them to self-select and participate. You own the database of all Advisors who start your module. Your MicroLearning module includes:

• 10 pages / 300 max words per page (3,000 total)
• Iconic images, video, interactive maps, streaming links, web links, curated sales tips, pdfs and infographics
• Included: post-produce two 45 second ‘auto-play’ videos to link content like STAR chapters, from existing commercial or promo reel
• 8 question multiple choice throughout, have to answer correct to proceed
• Full editorial services to match STAR Program tone and style
• Content Management System to update images, links, and collateral 24/7/365
• Available from Web and all iOS & Android devices
• You own the database of agents that register from your module
• Password protected reporting dashboard for export 24/7/365
• INCLUDES Marketing Showcase detailed above.

Pricing: INITIAL ENTRY CORE 7 market: $10,800 (US | Canada | Mexico | UK | Germany | France | Australia ) Additional Market Available: $1,200/market English: Add Scandinavia | India | Middle East $2,000/market with Translation: Add Italy | Japan | South Korea | China Annual Renewal: $1,200 / market annually

Your Own Custom Learning And Sales Companion

Imagine everything in the STAR program was built for you… the Design, Training, Promote , Sales Toolbox™, and Directory. Then take your multiple chapters of training and have it also exist within the STAR curriculum – accessible to all STAR Specialists. In essence, a super-charged program that affords you a customized sales enablement and training platform localized for YOUR core markets and aligned with YOUR strategy, with the additional benefit of the training chapters visible within the STAR platform and front and center with those Specialists.

Contact Us Below To Arrange A Consultation Call

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Greg Mitchell - Director of Business Development

"Looking forward to connecting with you to discuss your mobile strategy and also how we can help ensure a more effective travel trade engagement structure."

Schedule a 15 minute walk through of STAR opportunities!

Where travel agents earn, learn and save!

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Join thousands of other Canadian travel agents as an expert on California by taking the STAR program today

Did you know many parts of California have over 300 days of sunshine? Did you know that California’s wine country spans farther than Napa and Sonoma Valley? And did you know that you can ski and surf in the same day? The golden state of California has 12 regions, each offering something different than the next. California STAR training program takes you on an educational adventure through each of the regions highlighting why it makes the perfect destination for travel this year. You’ll learn the hot spots for road trips, the scenes for luxury travellers, and you may even discover a region you’ve never heard of before. California is known for many things, but let’s discover something NEW about the state together. Join thousands of other Canadian travel agents as an expert on California by taking the STAR program today. Once you’ve graduated, you’re placed on Visit California's VIP agents list and have first access to newsletters, curated itineraries, special events, and more. Start today!

star.visitcalifornia.com

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STAR Program FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the STAR program

General Information

What is the star program.

The STAR program was created pursuant to Assembly Bill 2289 (Eng, Chapter 258, Statutes of 2010) to improve the overall quality of Smog Check inspections and help the state meet required emissions reductions. The program offers voluntary certification of Smog Check test-and-repair and test-only stations that must adhere to high inspection-based standards.

When did the STAR program begin?

The STAR program began January 1, 2013. It replaced the previous Gold Shield Program, which sunsetted on December 31, 2012.

On July 1, 2022, regulatory changes updated STAR program eligibility requirements, established a STAR certification suspension—rather than invalidation—process, and deleted outdated Gold Shield Program provisions.

What services do STAR stations provide?

STAR stations provide the following services:

• Testing and certification of all vehicles subject to Smog Check.
• Testing and certification of gross-polluting vehicles.
• Testing and certification of directed vehicles, regardless of the station’s program area location.
• Testing and certification of vehicles registered in enhanced areas and are intended for sale by a motor vehicle dealer licensed by the Department of Motor Vehicles at the dealer’s premises located in a basic or change of ownership area. (Applies to STAR stations located in basic or change of ownership program areas that do not perform ASM inspections pursuant to HSC sections 44003 and 44003.5.)
• Repair assistance services. (Applies only to STAR test-and-repair stations which are located in basic or enhanced areas and are operating under a Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) agreement.)

Can a station that chooses not to participate in the STAR program inspect directed and gross-polluting vehicles?

No, only STAR stations may inspect directed and gross-polluting vehicles.

Is STAR certification available to Smog Check inspectors?

No. STAR certification is only available to Smog Check test-and-repair and test-only stations. However, inspector performance is evaluated to determine a station’s eligibility for STAR certification.

Eligibility and Certification

What are the eligibility requirements for star certification.

STAR certification eligibility requirements are listed on the STAR Certification page.

How does a station apply for STAR certification?

A station seeking STAR certification must submit to BAR a completed STAR Station Certification Application . As of the date the application is received by BAR, the station must meet all of the STAR certification eligibility requirements .

My station was denied STAR certification for failure to meet eligibility requirements. When can I reapply?

A station that was denied STAR certification for failure to meet eligibility requirements may reapply the next calendar quarter following the denial.

How do I withdraw my station’s STAR Certification?

A STAR station may withdraw its STAR certification by completing a Request for Inactive Status or Program Withdrawal form.

Please note, a station that withdraws its STAR certification must wait six months before submitting a new application for STAR certification. Withdrawal from the STAR program does not deprive BAR of its authority to continue the suspension of a station’s STAR certification.

Can my station's STAR certification be transferred to a prospective buyer or new owner of the station?

No. A station's STAR certification is not transferable to a prospective buyer or new owner. Upon change of ownership, the new owner must apply for a new automotive repair dealer registration and Smog Check license and may apply for STAR certification when eligibility requirements are met.

Will my station’s STAR certification be affected if I change the station type?

It depends. Changing to a test-and-repair or test-only station will not affect a station’s STAR certification. However, the station must submit an initial Smog Check Station License Application , a new STAR Station Certification Application , and all applicable fees to BAR.

Changing to a repair-only station will cause the station to no longer be eligible for STAR certification.

Will my station's STAR certification be affected if I relocate to a new address?

No. Changing a business address will not affect a station's STAR certification. However, your station will experience some downtime until an onsite inspection at the new location is performed by BAR.

Will my station's STAR certification be affected if I fail to renew my automotive repair dealer registration and/or Smog Check station license on time?

Yes. A station with an expired or delinquent automotive repair dealer registration or Smog Check station license is not eligible for STAR certification. Failure to renew a station’s registration and/or license is cause for BAR to suspend a station’s STAR certification.

Will my station's STAR certification be affected if the station or an inspector at my station receives a citation?

It depends on the citation. BAR may suspend a station’s STAR certification if the station or any inspector maintained in the station’s Inspector Information Table receives a citation, other than a citation containing an order of abatement, that becomes final and effective for violation of any of the sections detailed in Section 3392.3(a)(3)(B) of the California Code of Regulations.

Note that a citation with an order of abatement issued would not affect a station's STAR certification. Testing a 2000 and newer model-year gasoline-powered vehicle, or 1998 and newer model-year diesel vehicle on the BAR-97 Emission Inspection System (EIS) instead of the required On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Inspection System (OIS) usually results in a citation with an order of abatement. However, citations for other reasons or multiple citations for failing to test on the OIS is cause for suspension of a station's STAR certification.

Will my station’s STAR certification be affected for one isolated mistake on a Smog Check inspection?

It depends on the nature of the mistake. A mistake that leads to a citation or an administrative action is grounds for suspension of a station's STAR certification. In contrast, it generally takes several repeated inspection errors before a station fails to meet any of the STAR performance measures that are based on Smog Check inspection data.

Note that a single citation with an order of abatement, such as for testing a 2000 and newer model-year gasoline-powered vehicle, or 1998 and newer model-year diesel vehicle on the BAR-97 Emission Inspection System (EIS) instead of the required On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Inspection System (OIS), would not affect a station's STAR certification. However, citations for other reasons or multiple citations for failing to test on the OIS is cause for suspension of a station's STAR certification.

Suspension of STAR Certification

What are the causes for suspension of star certification.

BAR may suspend a station’s STAR certification for any of the Causes for Suspension of STAR Certification . If BAR finds cause to suspend a station’s STAR certification, BAR will notify the station via email or U.S. mail. The notice indicates the grounds and term of suspension and includes important appeal information.

Can my station’s STAR certification be suspended if the station did not receive an FPR score, and it adds a Smog Check inspector who did not receive an FPR score?

Yes, BAR has cause to suspend a station’s STAR certification if, in the most recently completed FPR reporting period, the STAR station did not receive an FPR score, and it adds a Smog Check inspector who also did not receive an FPR score to its Inspector Information Table.

If my station’s STAR certification is suspended, will my station need to reapply?

No, a station with a suspended STAR certification does not need to reapply and may resume operating as a STAR station when the term of suspension ends.

STAR Report Card

What is the star report card.

The STAR Report Card provides station and inspector STAR performance measure scores and related information.

• Station report cards include pass/fail results and inspector data to assist stations with monitoring performance to maintain STAR certification.
• Inspector report cards provide performance data to assist inspectors in improving their individual performance. Inspector scores help stations to evaluate both prospective and current employees.

How is STAR Report Card data collected?

Data is collected by the Smog Check inspection equipment during a vehicle inspection.

How often are STAR scores updated?

Scores for short-term performance measures, which include the Test Deviations, Similar Vehicle Failure Rate (SVFR), and Incorrect Gear Selection during the ASM test, are updated every month. However, pass/fail decisions are made only on a calendar quarter basis. The Follow-up Pass Rate (FPR), which is a long-term performance measure, is calculated and updated twice a year, in January and July. Check your STAR Report Card

What can I do if I think an incident reported on my STAR Report Card is incorrect?

If a station or inspector feels that an incident(s) has been incorrectly identified, and the incident(s) is causing the licensee to not meet the STAR performance measures, they may challenge the incident. The challenge must include a specific statement of explanation (see below example) providing reference to an industry-recognized vehicle data source such as ALLDATA, Motor, or Mitchell. The challenge and all appropriate supporting documentation should be submitted to [email protected] .

Please note, BAR will not accept or evaluate an unsubstantiated challenge, or a challenge submitted by a station or inspector that is passing the STAR performance measures.

Example of an Acceptable Incident Challenge "The STAR Report Card indicates that I should have performed a timing test on a [model-year, make, model, certificate number issued] vehicle. However, as indicated in [provide a detailed reference for your information such as ALLDATA or Motor, including links or page numbers], this vehicle does not have adjustable timing and, for this reason, should not have a timing test."

Short-Term Performance Measures

What are short-term performance measures.

Short-term performance measures are designed to provide a simple litmus test of recent performance to evaluate stations (and the work done by their inspectors). It can be a great resource in helping a station identify problem areas and improve their overall performance in the Smog Check Program. Short-term performance measures include:

• Incorrect Gear Selection
• Similar Vehicle Failure Rate
• Excessive Test Deviation Rate

Short-term performance measure results are an aggregate of all inspections performed at a station for the most recent calendar quarter. Check your STAR Report Card

My BAR-97 emissions inspection system often has difficulty picking up a stable engine RPM signal for vehicles with distributorless ignition systems (DIS). Will this affect my STAR score?

The Incorrect Gear Selection measure is the one STAR performance measure that uses the engine RPM reading. For that measure, ASM test results accompanied by abnormally high RPM readings are flagged as having been shifted into the incorrect gear during an ASM test mode.

Normally, antenna-based RPM errors will not result in Incorrect Gear Selection incidents. Antenna-based errors typically drive the RPM low, not high, as the RPM reading often drops out completely. Low readings will not cause Incorrect Gear Selection incidents. Furthermore, results for this measure are corrected for the specific vehicles inspected by each station. In other words, results for specific vehicles for which RPM readings are difficult to measure will be compared to results from similar vehicles, thus the performance standards will be appropriately based upon the vehicles inspected by each station.

Still, BAR recommends that stations pull the RPM readings directly from the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II system whenever possible.

Many of the vehicles my station inspects are equipped with non-factory sized tires. Will this affect the Incorrect Gear Selection performance measure?

The Incorrect Gear Selection performance measure allows for some variation in tire size without identifying an inspection as being driven in the incorrect gear. The underlying question is whether or not inspectors can alter the Smog Check procedures to accommodate a vehicle that is equipped with tires so large or small that it cannot be tested within the correct RPM range in the specified gear. Inspectors are required to follow the procedures outlined in the Smog Check Manual . If the vehicle is tested "as is" please note that it could affect the station's performance on the Incorrect Gear Selection measure, in which case it should be documented on the Vehicle Inspection Report. The station also has the option of referring the vehicle to the Referee for inspection.

Does the type of transmission entered during an ASM inspection affect the Incorrect Gear Selection performance measure?

Yes. If an inspector enters a manual transmission vehicle into the BAR-97 Emission Inspection System (EIS) as an automatic transmission, the inspection will likely trigger a gear shift incident. This is due to the fact that the measured RPM for a manual transmission vehicle tested in 2nd gear during the "2525" mode of the ASM test will often fall outside the allowable range for automatic transmission vehicles. This type of error will be apparent when looking at the individual incidents under the Incorrect Gear Selection performance measure because the RPM during the "2525" portion of the ASM test will be roughly two-thirds (2/3) higher than the RPM of the "5015" test mode. The way to correct this problem is to be sure to enter into the EIS the correct transmission type for each vehicle receiving an ASM test. As a general practice, BAR also recommends carefully reviewing all vehicle data entered into the EIS prior to beginning the ASM test mode.

During an ASM test, in which gear should vehicles with automatic transmissions be inspected when the "drive" position is not clearly identified on the vehicle?

Some newer automatic transmission vehicles, especially those with more than four forward gears, may not have clearly labeled "drive" settings. When the "drive" setting is not clearly identified on a vehicle, automatic transmission vehicles should be driven in the gear selector's default driving position. This means the position where the vehicle automatically shifts through the forward gears during the course of driving.

During an ASM test, in which performance mode should vehicles with user-selectable automatic transmission shift settings be driven?

Some automatic transmission vehicles have different performance modes or settings that control the automatic transmission shift points. These are typically the "standard/economy" mode or the "sport/performance/tow" mode. In the standard/economy setting, shift points will usually occur at lower engine RPM than they will with the sport/performance/tow settings. During an ASM test, vehicles equipped with user-selectable transmission performance settings should be placed in the economy/standard mode resulting in lower engine RPM shift points.

During an ASM test, how should a vehicle equipped with a transmission that allows either manual or automatic shifting be inspected?

If a vehicle is equipped with a transmission that was designed to shift automatically, the vehicle shall be ASM tested in the mode allowing automatic shifting, even if the vehicle has an option for manual shift operation. Vehicles that do not have a fully automatic setting shall be tested as a manual transmission, even if they do not have a manual clutch.

Will my Similar Vehicle Failure Rate (SVFR) be affected if I replace a failing fuel cap in the middle of an inspection and then pass the vehicle?

Inspectors have the option to replace leaking fuel caps mid-inspection in order to avoid having to fail the vehicle when the sole reason for the Smog Check failure is the fuel cap. When this occurs, and the inspector indicates that the fuel cap was replaced during the test, the SVFR performance measure will treat the inspection as though the fuel cap failed the leak-down portion of the inspection. Thus, while the official result for the inspection was a pass, the inspection result will be counted as a failure for the purposes of the SVFR.

Follow-up Pass Rate (FPR)

What is the follow-up pass rate.

The Follow-up Pass Rate (FPR) is a long-term performance measure which evaluates whether vehicles previously certified by the station or inspector in their previous inspection cycle are passing, in their current cycle, at a higher than expected rate. It is the only performance measure that evaluates the performance of each individual inspector as well as the station to determine a station’s eligibility for STAR certification.

How does the FPR differ from the SVFR?

The Similar Vehicle Failure Rate (SVFR) compares the initial test failure rate for vehicles inspected at each station to the initial test failure rate for similar vehicles statewide. The FPR is similar in concept, however, it measures whether the actual vehicles certified by each station or inspector in the last cycle are passing in the current cycle at a higher or lower rate than expected in comparison to other similar vehicles inspected throughout the state.

What is the range for FPR scores?

FPR scores range from zero to one, with zero representing the lowest possible score and one representing the highest possible score. Stations and inspectors with insufficient inspection histories from which to calculate an FPR score will not receive an FPR score.

Scores should be evaluated by whether or not they are above 0.50. Scores above 0.50 are trending better than average. Above average performance should be the goal for stations that want to participate in the STAR program. The criteria for STAR certification eligibility and when adding an inspector to a station’s Inspector Information Table is an FPR score greater than or equal to 0.40.

What are the FPR score criteria for STAR certification?

FPR score criteria for stations and inspectors are listed on the Follow-Up Pass Rate Score Criteria page. Different criteria are established for the following:

• Applying for STAR certification
• Adding a new inspector to the STAR station’s Inspector Information Table
• Maintaining an inspector in the STAR station’s Inspector Information Table

When are FPR scores updated?

FPR scores are updated every six months, in January and July. Check your STAR Report Card

What behaviors affect a station or inspector's FPR score?

Specific behaviors that can affect an FPR score include:

• Clean piping
• Clean plugging
• Incorrect gear selection
• Over-conditioning vehicles
• Not identifying visual inspection failures
• Not identifying functional inspection failures (e.g., fuel cap, ignition timing, low-pressure fuel evaporative emissions)
• Entering incorrect vehicle parameters to generate more lenient emission standards or a lighter vehicle weight loading (in order to create less treadmill resistance) during an ASM test

Are there other factors that cause FPR scores to change?

Yes. Some stations and inspectors may find that their FPR scores change. This will be more evident for stations and inspectors whose Smog Check inspection performance is closer to average. Others, whose behavior diverges more from average, will find their scores to be more stable, either at the high end or the low end of the performance scale. If a station owner or inspector wants consistently high FPR scores, then performing high quality inspections consistently is critical.

Sample size can also affect FPR scores. The more vehicles previously certified by a station or inspector that are inspected in the current cycle, the easier it is to determine whether or not that station or inspector's performance is above or below average. This means that scores can change due to the number of vehicles being inspected in the current cycle. So, if two stations perform similarly and above average, the station with the higher inspection volume will have a higher score. On the other hand, if two stations perform similarly but below average, the station with the higher inspection volume will have a lower score. This feature can also affect individual inspectors. For example, if an inspector maintains a consistent level of above average performance with FPR scores of 0.60, that inspector's FPR scores would move closer to 1.00 with an increase in the number of inspections performed by the inspector.

It is also important to recognize that inspector performance can and does change over time and this can affect both a station and inspector's FPR score. Station owners and inspectors need to reflect on what was happening two to three years ago to understand how these changes may be driving today's FPR scores. Were station owners or managers pushing high throughput at the expense of inspection quality? Were inspectors over-conditioning vehicles or driving them in the incorrect gear? Were inspectors taking the time to thoroughly visually inspect and functionally test all of the emission-related components as required by the Smog Check inspection procedures? When trying to understand FPR scores today, look back in time to see what was driving scores today.

Station FPR scores can also change based upon which inspectors were operating at the station at the time the vehicles were last certified and who was managing the station. Even though a station may take steps to address a problem where an inspector was performing improper inspections, the improper certifications issued by that inspector can affect that station's FPR score for some time.

It's also important to consider that accurate Smog Check inspections may take more time to perform. As a rule of thumb, a comprehensive inspection, including accurate determination of proper inspection procedures and thorough performance of the visual inspection and all applicable functional tests, will often take 20 or more minutes. These times may be reduced some if the inspector is experienced and has a lot of familiarity with the vehicle. Still, as evidenced by results on the STAR short-term performance measures, many inspectors are making more mistakes than they probably realize. When in doubt, slow down and perform the inspection correctly.

How do stations or inspectors improve their FPR score?

FPR scores can be improved by ensuring that accurate Smog Check inspections are performed according to the Smog Check Manual .

How long does it take to improve an FPR score?

Most stations and inspectors can expect to see their scores improving two years after changing a behavior that negatively impacted their score. Note, however, that when calculating the FPR, BAR evaluates follow-up inspections collected during the previous year to determine the performance in the previous inspection cycle. Due to the biennial nature of the Smog Check Program, inspections performed over three years ago may still affect an FPR score. For this reason, it can take considerably longer to achieve a "No Score" than to rehabilitate an FPR score with higher quality inspections.

Is my station eligible for STAR certification if both the station and inspector have no FPR score?

No. A station is not eligible for STAR certification until the station or inspector’s FPR score is at least 0.40, and all other eligibility requirements are met. To meet this requirement, a new station with no FPR score may add a Smog Check inspector with an FPR score of 0.40 or higher to its Inspector Information Table.

What are my options if both my STAR station and inspector have a low FPR score?

To avoid STAR suspension, a STAR station with a low FPR score cannot maintain an inspector with a low FPR score in its Inspector Information Table. The STAR station should remove the inspector with the low FPR score and add a new inspector with an acceptable FPR score. While the individual with the low FPR score may not act as an inspector at a STAR station, they may perform repairs on vehicles at the STAR station.

Will my STAR certification be suspended if my station or an inspector(s) in my station’s Inspector Information Table fails to meet the FPR score criteria?

BAR may suspend a station’s STAR certification if, in the most recently completed FPR reporting period, the stations meets any of the following:

• The STAR station did not receive an FPR score and it adds a Smog Check inspector who did not receive an FPR score to its Inspector Information Table.
• The STAR station’s FPR score is less than 0.40 and it adds a Smog Check inspector who did not receive an FPR score to its Inspector Information Table.
• The STAR station adds a Smog Check inspector who received an FPR score less than 0.40 to its Inspector Information Table.
• The STAR station maintains a Smog Check inspector who received an FPR score less than 0.10 in its Inspector Information Table.
• The STAR station’s FPR score is less than 0.10 and it maintains a Smog Check inspector who did not receive an FPR score in its Inspector Information Table.

Learn more about causes for suspension.

How can a station with a high FPR score have two inspectors with entirely different FPR scores?

First, it is important to remember that FPR scores are affected by both the quality of inspections performed and inspection volume for vehicles previously certified by both stations and inspectors.

For example, let's assume that two inspectors have been maintained in the same station's Inspector Information Table for years, and are not in the Inspector Information Tables of any other stations. Let's also assume that the two inspectors previously certified the same number of vehicles now being inspected in the current inspection cycle, but one of the inspectors performed higher quality inspections than the other inspector. In this case, it is fairly simple to understand that the higher performing inspector will have a better FPR score.

Now, let's consider another scenario for two inspectors maintained in the same station's Inspector Information Table for years at the same station. Let's also assume that both inspectors perform the same quality of work, but with one of the inspectors performing twice as many inspections as the other inspector. Which inspector will have the higher FPR score? The answer depends upon the quality of their identical performance. If their performance is above average, then the inspector with the higher inspection volume will have a higher FPR score because the statistical confidence of his or her higher performance will be greater with the larger sample size. Similarly, if their performance is below average, then the higher volume inspector will have the lower score because, again, the statistical confidence of his or her higher performance will be greater with the larger sample size.

For these reasons, one can't automatically assume that an inspector with a score of 0.90 performs higher quality inspections than an inspector with a score of 0.75. Instead, scores should be evaluated by whether or not they are above 0.50. Scores above 0.50 are trending better than average. Above average performance should be the goal for stations that want to participate in the STAR program. Note that the FPR performance standard for inspectors added to a station’s Inspector Information Table is 0.40, which is below the 0.50 level mentioned above. This lower limit was selected to allow inspectors near the standard the benefit of the doubt.

In order to maintain a high FPR score, should I refuse to inspect older, higher mileage vehicles?

No. Smog Check stations have the right to refuse to inspect vehicles they are uncomfortable testing. However, all of the performance measures used in the STAR program, including FPR, compare the vehicles inspected by each station and inspector to similar vehicles inspected throughout the state. Therefore, if your station only inspects older, higher mileage vehicles, then the results for your station are only going to be compared to the statewide results for similar older, higher mileage vehicles. Because of this important factor, there is no more reason to be concerned about certifying an older vehicle with a carburetor than there is certifying a newer vehicle with fuel injection. What matters is that inspectors perform accurate inspections and properly fail vehicles that should fail, regardless of the vehicle age or mileage.

Why is my FPR so low, even though my results for the STAR short-term measures look good?

The first reason why short-term results can be different from the FPR results has to do with the time frame over which the inspection results generated by the station or inspector are being evaluated. The short-term performance measures evaluate inspection performance based upon the most recent calendar quarter of data. The FPR, however, evaluates the inspection performance for each station or inspector in the previous inspection cycle. As a result, the short-term performance measures are evaluating performance over a different time frame than the FPR. Consequently, differences between short-term results and FPR scores could result from things such as station personnel changes or station policy changes.

Other reasons why the short-term results can differ from the FPR scores are based upon the nature of the measures themselves, as is detailed below.

The short-term performance measures are designed to provide a simple litmus test of recent performance to evaluate stations (and the work done by their inspectors). It can be a great resource in helping a station identify problem areas and improve their overall performance in the Smog Check Program. For instance, if a station is failing to perform the fuel evaporative test on vehicles that should be tested, there is a short-term measure that can help a station identify that as an area needing improvement.

The short-term measures are not, however, comprehensive. For example, a station's inspectors can indicate in the analyzer that the ignition timing is adjustable for all vehicles tested at the station, and give that station a passing result on this performance measure. However, that does not mean that the station's inspectors actually performed the timing test, or that the timing test was performed accurately. Similarly, a station may have a low ASM restart rate, which would indicate that its inspectors don't appear to be trying to find ways to get vehicles that should otherwise fail to instead pass the test. At the same time, however, that station's inspectors may be routinely over-conditioning vehicles prior to starting the inspection. Neither the improper timing inspections, nor the habitual over-conditioning of vehicles, as well as other more serious violations, such as clean-piping, would be identified by the short-term measures.

For this reason, BAR felt it necessary to develop a more robust, long-term measure of station and inspector performance in the Smog Check Program. The result is FPR, a performance measure that evaluates both station and inspector behavior from inspection cycle to inspection cycle. Anything inspectors do to get a vehicle that should fail its Smog Check inspection to pass while still in a failing condition will start to affect their FPR score. Stations that want to score well on both the short-term measures and FPR will want to strive to always perform accurate Smog Check inspections.

Will an inspector's FPR score be affected if they go on an extended leave of absence?

The FPR measures whether vehicles certified previously by each station or inspector are passing in the current inspection cycle at a higher rate than average. Vehicles previously certified by higher performing stations and inspectors will tend to fail at a lower rate in the current inspection cycle.

Because the FPR reflects station and inspector performance on vehicles they previously certified, stations and inspectors do not have to be currently performing inspections in order to generate an FPR score. In addition, vehicles previously certified by a station or inspector do not have to be re-inspected by the same station and inspector in order for the vehicle to be evaluated under the FPR.

An inspector who takes a leave of absence for a period of time could still have an FPR score and that score could change based on the results in the current inspection cycle of vehicles the inspector previously certified. If, however, the inspector is on leave for a period of years, there will eventually be a point at which there are no longer any vehicles certified by the inspector to generate an FPR score. At that point, the inspector will cease to have an FPR score under the STAR program. However, an inspector without an FPR score can still perform Smog Check inspections at a STAR station, provided that station has an FPR score of 0.40 or higher, or does not have an FPR score and the inspector with no score has been maintained in the station’s Inspector Information Table.

Is my station required to inspect poorly maintained vehicles?

No, stations are allowed to specialize in the type of vehicles that they inspect and repair, but must post the types of vehicles for which they offer services. Keep in mind that the FPR is based on comparing similar vehicles and conditions to all the other stations statewide. Vehicles with known maintenance problems can be directed to the Referee for inspection.

I can't control what happens to a vehicle after it leaves my shop. Won't this affect my FPR score?

Stations and inspectors have little control over what consumers do to their vehicles once the vehicle leaves their station. For this reason, it would be incorrect to evaluate a particular station's performance based upon how one, or even a few, vehicles performed during the next Smog Check inspection. For example, some properly inspected vehicles with passing emissions levels will fall into disrepair before their next Smog Check inspection. Conversely, other improperly certified high emitting vehicles may get fixed to run properly in their next inspection cycle. For this reason, the FPR measure is calculated using large amounts of data. This way, similar events like those just mentioned will tend to average out for all the stations and inspectors. Instead of the "one-of-a-kind" events, the trends associated with proper inspections versus improper inspections will determine the FPR scores.

My customer refused additional necessary repairs after their vehicle's emissions marginally passed Smog Check. Will this affect my FPR score and STAR certification?

The STAR program does not consider after repair emissions levels in the evaluation any performance measures. In fact, repair data doesn't factor into the STAR program evaluation at all. Still, the FPR measure under the STAR program does consider whether or not vehicles certified by each station and inspector pass at a higher or lower rate than average in the next inspection cycle when compared to similar vehicles. Stations that make a habit of certifying vehicles with incomplete repairs (e.g., masking a fuel system problem with a new catalytic converter) may notice a lower FPR score in the long-term, but it is unlikely that this behavior alone would push the station or inspector's FPR score to an unacceptable level. Stations who want to improve their FPR score and become STAR certified should primarily focus on performing accurate Smog Check inspections according to the Smog Check Manual . If this is done, the marginal vehicles needing additional repairs will be less of a factor in the overall FPR calculations.

If the FPR evaluates how vehicles previously certified by stations and inspectors are performing in the current inspection cycle, how are new stations and inspectors evaluated under this performance measure?

Smog Check stations and inspectors with low inspection volumes, including newly licensed stations and inspectors, will not receive an FPR score. An FPR score will only be generated once there is a sufficient volume of follow-up inspections performed on vehicles previously certified by that station or inspector.

A new station is eligible for STAR certification when the station or inspector’s FPR score is at least 0.40, and all other eligibility requirements are met.

My Smog Check station offers a "free retest" to consumers who fail their initial Smog Check at my station. Will this policy affect my STAR certification, and if so, how?

Stations offering "free retests" provide two inspections for the price of one whenever a vehicle fails its initial inspection. This can cut into station profits, especially at busy stations where shop owners must forgo additional work to perform the retests. A station's eligibility for the STAR program could be jeopardized in situations where stations and inspectors perform incomplete or inaccurate Smog Check inspections to avoid having to provide "free retests."

Can't find the answer to your question? Contact the BAR Industry Help Desk at [email protected] .

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Visit California unveils its California STAR training program

Visit California announced the Middle East relaunch of the Visit California STAR Online Training Program as it looks to strengthen California as a premier travel destination among trade professionals in the GCC and Middle East.

The STAR program is a dynamic platform designed to enhance sales and amplify agents’ understanding of the diverse range of California experiences. Through comprehensive training and interactive sales components, this program empowers Middle East agents, enabling them to effectively market and sell new and exciting travel products that they can tailor specifically to their clientele’s needs.

After undertaking a number of training modules, travel agents will attain certification as a California STAR expert and be provided with complimentary access to amazing copyright free destination images, promotional videos and access to both invaluable industry insights and a local supplier contact database.

The online training program has already been introduced to a number of Middle East travel and airline partners in the GCC with excellent reviews. The ability to download themed holiday itineraries and use the Visit California Road Trip Republic online tool to create tailored road trip itineraries have been exceptionally highly praised.

In the coming months Visit California is also looking for key industry players as partners to promote new California travel product. The focus will encompass a wide array of unique Californian experiences, including relaxed luxury exclusivity, nature experiences, Native Californian experiences, culinary experiences (including California’s Michelin Starred restaurants and farm-to-table gourmet experiences, Classic Car Fairs, and exhilarating road trips.

According to Glenn Johnston, Managing Director Middle East, Visit California: “The California STAR program equips agents with essential training, interactive sales tools, and marketing resources, transforming them into expert brand ambassadors capable of delivering unforgettable vacations for their potential clients. We firmly believe that this program will not only enrich travelers’ experiences but also significantly contribute to the growth of Visit California holiday packages and revenues for travel agents. It is really an excellent resource that all travel trade professionals will love, even if just for its directory.”

The training content on California Star features an intuitive layout, categorizing modules into essential and specialized topics. Advisors are motivated by earning gold, silver, and bronze stars as they progress through the training. The CA STAR App (available for iOS and Android) provides easy access to the program and information from anywhere in the Middle East.

By June 2024, 100 professional travel agents are anticipated to graduate as certified California Star travel experts.

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Visit California Star online training programme relaunches in Middle East

Posted by Claudia De Brito on 13 October 2023

The initiative aims to establish California as a premier travel destination among GCC trade professionals 

Visit California has announced the Middle East relaunch of the Visit California Star online training programme.

The Star programme is a platform designed to enhance sales and amplify agents' understanding of the diverse range of California experiences. 

Through comprehensive training and interactive sales components, the programme empowers Middle East agents, enabling them to effectively market and sell new travel products that they can tailor specifically to their clientele’s needs.

RELATED: Wego partners with Spain Tourism to create travel guide European Travel Commission names new president Top 10 sunniest destinations in Europe

The training content on California Star features an intuitive layout, categorising modules into essential and specialised topics. Advisors are motivated by earning gold, silver and bronze stars as they progress through the training. The CA STAR App (available for iOS and Android) provides easy access to the programme from anywhere in the Middle East.

After undertaking a number of training modules, travel agents will attain certification as a California Star expert and be provided with complimentary access to copyright-free destination images, promotional videos, industry insights and a local supplier contact database.

BUILD YOUR OWN TRAVEL BUSINESS. JOIN TRAVEL COUNSELLORS' NEXT EVENT TO FIND OUT HOW

In the coming months, Visit California will seek key industry players as partners to promote new California-based travel experiences.

Visit California managing director Middle East Glenn Johnston said: “We firmly believe that this programme will not only enrich travellers' experiences but also significantly contribute to the growth of Visit California holiday packages and revenues for travel agents. It's really an excellent resource that all travel trade professionals will love, even if just for its directory.”

By June 2024, 100 professional travel agents are expected to have graduated as certified California Star travel experts. 

For more information, visit www.star.visitcalifornia.com/login  

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Become A California STAR Specialist

June 21, 2017

Agents will have the opportunity to make selling California easier, keep up-to-date with what’s new and exciting in the golden state, and immerse themselves in the destination with videos, image galleries & more.

Participate in the webinar for your chance to win a Visit California backpack filled with fabulous California swag and a bottle of wine.

The webinar starts at 2 p.m. EST on June 28. To register, visit: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/f37c219f436a80607c24e00bf0acd2b8

Images courtesy of Visit California.

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California STAR Training 17+

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On behalf of Visit California, welcome to the California STAR Training Program and Sales Companion. This mobile app is designed to help you more easily discover and sell California like a pro, anytime or anywhere – helping maintain your expertise long after completing the embedded California STAR training course. The content is all-new, updated regularly, easily sharable, and has something for everyone. In addition to the destination content, enjoy the interactive supplier Directory and Showcase and explore other destinations and products throughout the State to expand your understanding of what’s new, exciting, and available for your clients.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

See the Total Solar Eclipse’s Shadow From Space

Satellite images from NASA and NOAA showed the moon’s shadow moving across North America.

By K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

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Jonathan Majors avoids jail time in assault of ex-girlfriend, must attend domestic violence program

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Jonathan Majors, the once in-demand actor best known for “Creed III” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” was sentenced Monday to domestic violence counseling after he was found guilty last year of assault and harassment of ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari.

Majors, who was poised to be the big bad in the next phase of the Marvel cinematic universe, will avoid jail time, sources confirmed to The Times. The actor had been facing a maximum sentence of one year in prison.

New York Judge Michael Gaffey, who oversaw the December trial, ordered Majors to complete a 52-week in-person batterer’s intervention program, the Associated Press reported . He must also continue with his mental health therapy. The actor will face a year in jail if he violates the terms of his sentence, which also includes a no-contact order with Jabbari.

Monday’s sentencing, initially set for early February, was postponed because of motions filed by his legal team. Last week, a New York judge rejected the attorneys’ motion to overturn the verdict.

Entertainment & Arts

Jonathan Majors’ sentencing is still on as judge rejects a motion to toss conviction

Jonathan Majors’ sentencing will go on as scheduled after a New York judge denied a motion by his legal team to dismiss his guilty verdict, The Times confirmed.

April 3, 2024

“He’s lost his whole career,” Majors’ attorney, Priya Chaudhry, reportedly said in court. “This has been the most challenging year of his life.”

Ross Kramer, an attorney for Jabbari, called Monday’s decision “a serious sentence, which is appropriate because this was a very serious crime,” in a statement shared with The Times. Kramer’s statement also said Jabbari spoke about the lasting effects of Majors’ behavior in court Monday.

“This is the norm: the impact of domestic violence often lasts far beyond the end of the relationship,” the statement added, before praising Jabbari for speaking out about the alleged abuse she faced from her ex-boyfriend.

The missive added: “Hopefully, her example will empower other survivors to break their silence and hold their abusers accountable.”

A legal representative for Majors did not provide comment to The Times on Monday.

In December, Majors was found guilty in a split verdict of assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree after a fiery two-week trial. He was also acquitted on two counts of assault and harassment against Jabbari.

The 34-year-old actor’s high-profile domestic violence case brought his quick ascent to Hollywood stardom to a screeching halt as studios shelved upcoming film projects starring Majors, publicity and management firms reportedly dropped the actor and he was cut from ad campaigns.

Shortly after his guilty verdict, Marvel cut ties with Majors but did not share additional details behind its decision.

Jonathan Majors guilty on counts of assault and harassment, not guilty of two others

A Manhattan jury found actor Jonathan Majors guilty of assaulting ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari, ending the high-profile domestic violence trial.

Dec. 18, 2023

Chaudhry said last year that she was “disappointed” with the actor’s guilty verdict but that her client was maintaining a positive outlook amid his legal defeat.

Prosecutors alleged that Majors assaulted Jabbari in New York City on the evening of March 24, 2023, after she read a romantic message that was sent to his phone by another woman. The actor, who was arrested the day after the dispute, allegedly grabbed Jabbari’s hand so hard that he fractured her middle finger and also allegedly struck her face with an open hand and pushed her into a vehicle. She was hospitalized for minor injuries. The March incident was a culmination of Majors’ “cruel and manipulative pattern of psychological and physical abuse,” prosecutors said during opening statements.

Manhattan Dist. Atty. Alvin Bragg said in a December statement that the evidence against Majors “illustrated a cycle of psychological and emotional abuse, and escalating patterns of coercion far too common across the many intimate partner violence cases.”

Jonathan Majors dropped by Marvel after conviction

Marvel has dropped actor Jonathan Majors after the actor was found guilty of assault and harassment on Monday.

The December statement added: “A jury determined that pattern of abuse and coercion culminated with Mr. Majors assaulting and harassing his girlfriend. We thank the jury for its service and the survivor for bravely telling her story despite having to relive her trauma on the stand.”

Majors received his sentence a month after Jabbari filed a civil lawsuit accusing the actor of battery, assault, defamation, infliction of emotional distress and malicious prosecution. The lawsuit hinges on Majors’ alleged “pattern of pervasive domestic abuse that began in 2021 and extended through 2023,” according to the complaint, which was reviewed by The Times.

Jabbari’s suit details several alleged incidents of domestic violence by Majors — some of which were outlined in last year’s trial. The complaint also alleges that the actor “intentionally made knowingly false statements” about the events of their March 2023 dispute when he broke his silence in an interview with ABC News.

“The false statements that Majors made personally, and through his authorized agent Chaudhry, not only called [Jabbari’s] truthfulness and integrity into question, but also exposed her to public hatred, contempt, ridicule, and disgrace,” the lawsuit says.

Jonathan Majors accused of abuse by two more women, troubling behavior on ‘Lovecraft Country’

Jonathan Majors has been accused by two exes of abuse. He was also accused of other troubling behavior, which allegedly was an issue on HBO’s ‘Lovecraft Country.’

Feb. 9, 2024

Jabbari requested a jury trial and is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages.

Before his March 2023 arrest, Majors was seemingly on a fast track to significant Hollywood stardom after his turn in the critically acclaimed 2019 film “The Last Black Man in San Francisco.” In the years after his breakout, Majors led HBO’s Emmy-winning “ Lovecraft Country ” — which earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination — and starred in Spike Lee‘s “Da 5 Bloods.”

In recent years, Majors entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as one of its key villains, appearing in the TV series “Loki” and the film “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.” His credits also include the films “Devotion,” “The Harder They Fall” and “White Boy Rick.”

Jonathan Majors believes he has a future in Hollywood after conviction: ‘It’s God’s plan’

In his first interview since being convicted of assaulting and harassing then-girlfriend Grace Jabbari, Majors, joined by new girlfriend Meagan Good, said he deserves a second chance.

Jan. 8, 2024

He was set to star in the bodybuilder drama “Magazine Dreams,” but Disney removed the film from its theatrical release calendar amid his assault allegations. In January, the actor was also booted from the sports film “48 Hours in Vegas,” which would have seen him play basketball star Dennis Rodman.

Majors, who did not testify during the December trial, reacted to the verdict weeks later in January in a sit-down interview with ABC News, which is owned by Disney. Amid the professional fallout, Majors said, “I pray I do” bounce back.

“It’s God’s plan and God’s timing,” he said.

Former Times staff writer Jonah Valdez contributed to this report.

More to Read

Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend sues actor alleging defamation, battery a year after his arrest

March 19, 2024

Jonathan Majors sentencing postponed to April after assault, harassment conviction

Feb. 6, 2024

Hollywood insiders on Jonathan Majors’ future: Public missteps ‘made a bad situation worse’

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Alexandra Del Rosario is an entertainment reporter on the Los Angeles Times Fast Break Desk. Before The Times, she was a television reporter at Deadline Hollywood, where she first served as an associate editor. She has written about a wide range of topics including TV ratings, casting and development, video games and AAPI representation. Del Rosario is a UCLA graduate and also worked at the Hollywood Reporter and TheWrap.

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