Sen. Shannon Grove (R–Bakersfield) and Jay Leno are teaming up in an attempt to exempt certain classic cars from smog check requirements.
Grove introduced Senate Bill 712 with the backing of the former Tonight Show host, who is also known for his extensive car collection at his garage in Burbank.
The big picture: SB 772, also called Leno’s Law, would exempt cars that are at least 35 years old and are considered to be collector vehicles.
- State law defines a collector motor vehicle as a vehicle owned by a collector that is primarily used in shows, parades, charitable functions and historical exhibitions for display, maintenance and preservation. State law says collector vehicles are not used primarily for transportation.
What they’re saying: Leno said SB 712 is needed in order to keep California as a paradise for classic car enthusiasts like himself and to honor the state’s rich classic car culture.
- “California’s smog check laws for classic cars need to be updated – they vary too much from state to state, and California’s rules don’t match up with neighboring ones,” Leno said. “Our classic cars are only driven for special occasions, weekend drives and car shows. I am excited to work with Senator Grove on SB 712 to make it simpler for us to preserve these pieces of history.”
- Grove said California’s classic cars have strong cultural ties throughout local communities and support thousands of jobs in the aftermarket industry.
- “Senate Bill 712 will update the current law to include all classic cars that are 35 years or older, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy their hobby without burdensome restrictions that are driving some collectors and industry businesses out of the state,” Grove said.
