Leno’s Law is one step closer to becoming reality in California after Senate Bill 1392 passed both legislative chambers on August 31 and advanced to Governor Gavin Newsom for consideration. If signed, the measure would expand smog-check exemptions for certain classic vehicles built between 1976 and 1985.
California Bill Would Expand Classic Car Exemptions
Filed as California Senate Bill 1392, the proposal was previously shelved before being revived. It now awaits Newsom’s signature after clearing both chambers of the state legislature.
The legislation would exempt additional classic cars from smog inspections, which are designed to reduce harmful emissions but can also add costs and complications for owners. Vehicles manufactured before the 1976 model year are already exempt.
Under the proposal, vehicles from model years 1976 through 1985 would eventually qualify for the exemption. The change could affect many classic car owners, including Jay Leno, who reportedly owns around 180 cars.
Requirements and Limits for Collectors
The proposed exemption comes with several restrictions. Owners would be required to carry specialized collector-car insurance.
Beginning in 2030, vehicles driven fewer than 1,000 miles annually could also qualify through a verification process established by the Bureau of Automotive Repair. The requirement is intended to ensure the vehicles are not used as daily drivers.
The rules would limit eligible vehicles primarily to use at shows, parades, charitable events, historical exhibitions, and for maintenance and preservation. The restrictions could address concerns from environmental groups advocating for cleaner air, particularly in California, where EV adoption is higher than in any other U.S. state.
Leno’s Law Would Roll Out Over Five Years
The expanded smog exemption would not take effect for all eligible vehicles at once. Instead, the legislation calls for a gradual rollout over five years.
- Beginning January 1, 2028, eligible vehicles would include model years 1976 through 1980.
- On January 1, 2029, 1981 model-year vehicles would be added.
- The cutoff would increase by one model year each year.
- By January 1, 2033, the exemption would include 1985 models.
Coverage Would Include Cars From the Malaise Era
The additional exemption years would largely cover vehicles sold during the Malaise Era, when oil crises and strict new government regulations pushed U.S. automakers toward smaller engines and often traded performance for efficiency.
The period nevertheless produced several notable vehicles, including the Buick Grand National and the polarizing Fox-body Ford Mustang.
Governor Newsom Has Until the End of September
SB 1392 is now before Newsom, who has until the end of September to either sign or veto the legislation. Supporters see the measure as beneficial to certain classic car owners and car events featuring historic vehicles, including Monterey Car Week.
At the same time, the governor must weigh criticism that expanding the exemption could increase air pollution in California. The state remains strongly committed to EV adoption and offers up to $3,500 in rebates for eligible first-time EV buyers.
The future of Leno’s Law now depends on Newsom’s decision, with the proposed legislation awaiting the final step needed to expand California’s smog-check exemptions for qualifying classic cars.
