Leno’s Law: New Bill to Exempt California Classics from Smog Checks

In a move that could reshape the landscape for classic car enthusiasts in California, a new bill dubbed 'Leno's Law' has been introduced to exempt certain classic vehicles from mandatory smog checks. The legislation, named after renowned car collector and television host Jay Leno, aims to ease the regulatory burden on owners of vintage cars in the state.

The proposed bill would specifically target cars manufactured before 1981, arguing that these vehicles contribute a negligible amount to the state's overall air pollution. Supporters of the bill, including Leno himself, argue that the smog check requirements are both costly and unnecessary for these older models, which are often maintained meticulously by their owners.

California has some of the strictest emissions standards in the United States, and the smog check program is a key component of the state's efforts to combat air pollution. However, the introduction of Leno's Law has sparked a debate about the balance between environmental protection and the preservation of automotive history. Critics of the bill worry that any relaxation of emissions standards could set a precedent for further rollbacks, potentially undermining the state's air quality goals.

The bill is currently under review by the California State Legislature, with hearings scheduled to gather more input from both sides of the issue. If passed, Leno's Law could serve as a model for other states with significant classic car communities, potentially influencing national policy on vintage vehicle regulations.

• California
• Jay Leno
• Leno's Law
• Smog Checks