- Jay Leno backs a California legislation that waives smog inspections for vehicles that are 35 years old.
- The suggested legislation, SB-712, aims to broaden the existing exemption from 1975 for vintage cars.
- Leno states that most smog inspection centers do not have the necessary equipment to accurately test antique vehicles.
California has an extensive history of regulating emissions from vehicles, but now, a well-known figure is supporting a bill that might ease these restrictions—particularly for vintage car aficionados. Jay Leno Notably stays away from political themes in his humor, making it particularly unexpected that he was recently seen supporting Senate Bill 712 at the California State Capitol.
Dubbed “Leno’s Law,” the proposed legislation would exempt cars 35 years and older from smog checks, offering a small but significant carveout for vintage vehicles.
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At present, most vehicles manufactured after 1975 are required to undergo a smog inspection when there’s a change in registration or ownership. However, as Leno points out, numerous smog testing facilities lack the necessary equipment to properly assess older automobiles. The bill enjoys broad backing from both parties, with supporters noting that fewer than one percent of vehicles on the roads are affected by this. California would be eligible for the exemption.
A Star-Studded Pitch, With a Pontiac Spin
"I realize I'm an irritating celebrity appearing in Sacramento. From watching them on television, I've noticed that some of these individuals have no clue what they're discussing. However, this is a topic that interests me," Leno stated after arriving dressed in a classic outfit. Pontiac Trans Am.
I witnessed the movie industry being devastated. Everyone relocated from California because filming costs were extremely high there. They shifted their focus to states like Texas and cities such as Atlanta instead," the ex-late night talk show host added, pointing out that various automobile manufacturers have set up custom car design studios across the state. "It’s disheartening to see all these innovative concepts move away and conduct their businesses elsewhere, particularly not wanting the custom car or machinery industries to depart from California as the film industry once did.
Those against the legislation argue that it will pave the way for individuals to maintain highly pollutant vehicles. It should be pointed out that California already exempts vehicles produced before 1976 from its smog-check program. Indeed, regarding diesel-powered vehicles It excludes all items produced prior to 1998.
Moreover, gasoline-driven vehicles under eight years old aren't required to undergo smog inspections. Given these points, it appears logical to create an exemption within Leno’s legislation. The proposal has successfully cleared the Senate Transportation Committee and will proceed to the Appropriations Committee for further evaluation.
Although it's not yet certain, "Leno's Law" might provide relief for classic car owners and allow more Pontiac Trans Ams to continue driving through California streets without needing an appointment at the smog inspection center.