A bill known as “Leno’s Law” is advancing through the California Legislature with support from comedian and classic car enthusiast Jay Leno. The proposal would ease smog-check requirements for certain older collector cars that may not meet modern emissions standards. This week, the bill cleared the state Senate with bipartisan support and is scheduled for consideration by the Assembly Appropriations Committee today. Under current California law, vehicles manufactured before 1976 are exempt from smog-check requirements. The proposed legislation would eventually expand that exemption to classic cars built between 1976 and 1985, provided they are primarily used for exhibition purposes and have limited use on public roads. The exemption would be phased in gradually, beginning with vehicles manufactured in 1976 and adding one model year at a time. Supporters say the measure would reduce unnecessary testing requirements for collectors while preserving California’s environmental protections. Leno has been a prominent advocate for the bill.
