A display of classic cars representing California's rich automotive culture.
California’s Senate Bill 712, also known as ‘Leno’s Law,’ seeks to reduce smog check requirements for classic cars. If passed, vehicles over 35 years old will be exempt from extensive regulations, promoting classic car culture and supporting the automotive economy. The bill has garnered support from businesses and enthusiasts alike, aiming to preserve California’s motor vehicle heritage while balancing environmental concerns. The discussion is set to begin in April, with hopes for a favorable outcome.
California is revving up its legislative engines with a fresh bill that classic car enthusiasts can’t stop buzzing about! Introduced by State Senator Shannon Grove from Bakersfield, Senate Bill 712, lovingly dubbed “Leno’s Law”, aims to lift some weighty smog check requirements for our beloved classic cars. Yes, you read that right! It’s time for those vintage beauties to hit the roads again with less red tape.
Currently, California has stringent rules around smog checks for vehicles. In fact, cars built before 1976 are already off the hook for these checks, while cars 35 years and older can qualify for exemptions but have a compliance dance that includes keeping up with emissions relevant to their era along with passing visual inspections. This can make car ownership feel a bit complicated. The new bill dreams to change all that by expanding smog check exemptions to vehicles that are at least 35 years old and are insured as collector motor vehicles.
Senator Grove believes that preserving classic cars is more than just a hobby; it’s part of California’s rich automotive culture and a significant player in the state’s economy. By lessening the burden of regulations, this bill could keep classic car lovers feeling great about their passion without the hassle that sometimes leads collectors and businesses to leave California behind for friendlier climes.
Enter comedian and car aficionado Jay Leno, who’s passionate about motor vehicles and knows a thing or two about car culture. He’s got a firm belief that California should maintain its stronghold as a hub for automotive creativity and innovation, especially since the state played a huge role in the post-war hot rod boom. Leno insists that the current smog regulations feel outdated and don’t align with the more relaxed rules in neighboring states such as Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona.
Support for SB 712 isn’t just a handful of car enthusiasts clapping in the back; it’s backed by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, which includes around 7,000 small businesses in the automotive aftermarket. With this community generating over $40 billion annually and contributing more than $6 billion in taxes, it’s clear that classic cars have a significant economic impact in California, supporting over 149,000 jobs!
So, what’s next for this bill? It will have its first hearing before the California Senate Transportation Committee in April. With evident support from both Republicans and Democrats—many of whom are proud owners of their own classic cars—the stage is set for a compelling discussion. And while environmental groups may have their reservations about potential air quality impacts, advocates believe that classic cars, often driven sparingly during special events or shows, pose minimal risk to the environment.
If all goes well, the bill will then be evaluated by the full Senate followed by the Assembly before landing on Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for one last sign-off. Fingers crossed for classic car lovers who yearn to take their cherished rides out for a spin without all the cumbersome legislation holding them back!
As more voices rally for this cause, it illustrates a broader appreciation for classic vehicles and their place within California’s culture. Whether you’re an owner, a fan, or just someone who loves seeing those vintage cars cruising by, this proposed legislation aims to keep the spirit of classic motoring alive and well for years to come.
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