California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 1392, known as "Jay Leno's Law," which expands smog check exemptions for certain collector cars, benefiting enthusiasts of vehicles from the late 1970s and 1980s. The legislation, championed by comedian and auto aficionado Jay Leno, addresses long-standing challenges faced by owners of these iconic automobiles in meeting emissions regulations.
The new law will progressively phase in smog check exemptions for collector cars manufactured between the 1976 and 1985 model years, provided they are not used as a primary mode of transportation. Current regulations exempt vehicles made before the 1975 model year. Beginning January 1, 2028, the exemption will apply to qualifying cars manufactured before the 1981 model year, with eligibility extending by one model year annually until 2033, when vehicles up to the 1985 model year will be included.
To qualify for the exemption, owners must demonstrate that their collector car is not used for daily transport. This can be proven through collector-car insurance or by documenting that the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The exemption is intended for cars primarily used in shows, parades, charitable functions, and historical exhibitions. State Senator Dave Cortese, a co-author of the bill, emphasized that the law balances the protection of clean air with the recognition of the historic and cultural value of collector vehicles.
Maintaining vintage vehicles often involves specialized knowledge and resources, and the requirement for biennial smog checks presented a significant hurdle for collectors, particularly given the difficulty in finding service stations equipped for older vehicles and the challenges of meeting modern emissions standards with deteriorating vintage systems. Jay Leno highlighted at a rally for the bill that the previous regulations could inadvertently criminalize owners who wished to maintain their vehicles legally.
The bill is considered a significant victory for the lowrider community, which submitted over 1,700 letters in support. Lowriders, a cherished part of California's Chicano culture, have historically faced restrictions and fines. Governor Newsom also signed Assembly Bill 2541, creating a special license plate to honor California's lowrider heritage, recognizing it as an expression of culture, art, and pride. Assemblymember Mark González stated that lowriders have been a medium for communities to tell their stories and celebrate their heritage.
The passage of Jay Leno's Law followed considerable debate, as environmental and public health advocates had previously opposed similar measures due to concerns about increased exhaust emissions. However, supporters successfully argued that the environmental impact would be limited, as the waivers apply to a small percentage of vehicles driven sparingly. The bill garnered significant bipartisan support, with State Senator Shannon Grove noting the two-year effort and the widespread backing from car enthusiasts, mechanics, and families across the state.
