Lawmakers Reject “Leno’s Law”; Classic Cars Must Still Pass California Smog Tests
California lawmakers have put the brakes on a proposal, nicknamed “Leno’s Law,” that would have created a rolling 35‑year exemption for classic cars from the state’s stringent smog check requirements; vehicles 1976 and newer must still pass emissions tests.
Key takeaways
- SB 712 (nicknamed “Leno’s Law”) would have exempted cars 35 years and older from smog checks if insured as collector vehicles — reporting by LAist and CalMatters.
- The bill was blocked on the Assembly Appropriations “suspense file” during the late‑August session and did not advance.
- Under current rules enforced by the Bureau of Automotive Repair, gasoline, hybrid and alternative‑fuel vehicles model year 1976 and newer must pass smog tests; only 1975 and earlier are exempt.
Main story
What was SB 712 and who backed it?
Senate Bill 712, introduced by Sen. Shannon Grove, proposed a rolling 35‑year exemption from mandatory smog checks for vehicles insured as collector or classic cars. Jay Leno was a high‑profile backer, arguing the measure would protect automotive history and ease costs for hobbyists.
In practice the bill would have advanced the model‑year cutoff by one year each calendar year — for example, in 2025 cars built in 1990 and earlier would qualify; in 2026, 1991 and earlier, and so on. Proponents said this would modernize an antiquated fixed cutoff and better align policy with collector use patterns. Background coverage is available from Japanese Nostalgic Car and Car and Driver.
Why the bill failed in this session
SB 712 was placed on the Assembly Appropriations Committee’s “suspense file” by committee leadership, chaired by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, where it was effectively blocked along with more than 70 other measures. Bills are often put on the suspense file when they raise politically sensitive or potentially costly issues, and SB 712 faced opposition citing air‑quality risks and enforcement concerns. Reporting and committee summaries are chronicled by LAist and CalMatters.
What current California smog check rules require
California’s Bureau of Automotive Repair enforces the state smog check program. Key rules include:
- Gasoline, hybrid and alternative‑fuel vehicles model year 1976 and newer must pass periodic smog tests to be registered.
- Gasoline cars from 1975 and earlier are exempt; diesel vehicles from 1997 and earlier or over 14,000 lbs have separate rules.
- Electric vehicles and motorcycles are exempt from smog checks.
A prior rolling exemption (30 years) existed in the early 2000s but was ended in 2005 and replaced with the fixed 1975 cutoff. Supporters wanted to return to a rolling system; opponents warned of weakening emissions protections. See reporting at Car and Driver.
Arguments from supporters and opponents
Supporters — including Jay Leno and many collectors — argued that classic cars are driven infrequently, contribute little to overall pollution, and face disproportionate costs for repairs and testing. They emphasized preservation of automotive history and reduced burdens on hobbyists (Japanese Nostalgic Car; Car and Driver).
Opponents — including environmental groups and some lawmakers — warned the exemption could undermine California’s air‑quality goals, create loopholes (misclassification as “collector” vehicles) and complicate enforcement. Coverage of the political debate and the Appropriations hold is available via LAist and CalMatters.
How the decision affects classic car owners now
Because SB 712 was blocked, there is no change to existing law. Owners of classic cars model year 1976 and newer must continue to meet California smog check requirements, typically including biannual tests. For guidance on who must be tested or is exempt, consult the Bureau of Automotive Repair smog check page.
Enforcement, costs and practical steps for owners
- Check eligibility and limited exemptions at the BAR smog check page.
- Keep clear insurance and maintenance documentation; note SB 712 would have required collector‑car insurance as part of the exemption, but that requirement is not applicable now.
- Seek certified repair shops experienced with older vehicles; local classic‑car clubs often share trusted referrals.
- Track state policy updates — lawmakers may revisit the issue in future sessions.
Broader context: preservation vs. air quality
The SB 712 debate highlights a recurring policy tension in California: balancing cultural preservation and local economic interests against statewide environmental and public‑health goals. Classic‑car advocates emphasize heritage and tourism; environmental advocates stress that strict smog rules are necessary to reduce ozone and particulates. Lawmakers must weigh enforcement costs, emissions impacts and precedent when considering exemptions.
Implications for the Inland Empire
Economic impact
Local restoration and repair shops in the Inland Empire will continue to rely on smog check business, preserving demand for certified shops and parts suppliers. The bill’s defeat avoids a potential short‑term revenue drop from smog tests but keeps costs for collectors who use these services. For BAR guidance see the BAR smog check page.
Car shows and events may feel indirect effects: stable rules help event planners budget and set entry requirements, while continued testing obligations remain a cost factor for participants.
Political consequences
The bill’s failure signals that state environmental priorities can outweigh niche cultural exceptions. Inland Empire voters may interpret this as a balanced approach that protects air quality while leaving room for future, more targeted policy proposals. Local officials can expect renewed advocacy for narrower relief options, such as targeted waivers or reduced testing frequency.
Social and community effects
Classic‑car clubs across the Inland Empire will likely continue outreach and advocacy. Meetings and community resources help owners comply affordably and share trusted repair recommendations. For residents concerned about pollution, keeping smog checks in place helps protect neighborhood health in regions already challenged by ozone and freight‑related emissions.
Practical applications for Inland Empire residents
- Confirm smog‑check requirements for your vehicle at the BAR smog check page. Keep maintenance records to ease testing.
- Attend local classic‑car club events to find smog‑certified shops experienced with older vehicles and reduce repair costs.
- Contact state legislators to express support for targeted solutions that protect heritage while safeguarding air quality.
Sources and further reading
- LAist: “Classic cars smog test: lawmaker’s bill blocked”
- CalMatters: “California kills Jay Leno classic car smog bill”
- Japanese Nostalgic Car: “California Leno’s Law SB 712 classic car smog exemption”
- Car and Driver: “Leno’s Law would relax smog rules for classic cars”
- California Bureau of Automotive Repair: Smog Check program
