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Senator’s New Law for Classic Car Fans, Backed by Jay Leno!

Ethan Carter March 8, 2025 4 min read

Jay Leno Champions Classic Cars with New Bill

American comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno is making headlines again, this time for his support of a new bill aimed at helping classic car owners. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 712 or “Leno’s Law,” was introduced by Senator Shannon Grove last month in California. This proposed law seeks to exempt collector vehicles at least 35 years old from the state’s biennial smog check program.

What’s in the Classic Car Fans Bill?

Here’s what that means: if a classic car is properly insured as a collector vehicle, it won’t have to undergo the usual smog checks every two years. This change is seen as a way to preserve California’s rich automotive history without putting unnecessary financial burdens on classic car owners.

The Importance of Classic Cars

California has long been a hub for car enthusiasts. The state has a deep history with automobiles, dating back to some of the first classic cars made in America. According to Senator Grove, these vehicles represent much more than just modes of transportation. “These rolling pieces of history have strong cultural ties in our communities,” she said in a statement. “They also support thousands of jobs in the aftermarket parts industry.”

Leno’s Passion for Cars

Jay Leno, who’s known not just for his stand-up comedy but also for his love of cars, chimed in on the matter. “California’s classic car culture has made it a paradise for enthusiasts like me,” he said. He highlighted how the state has shaped car culture, influenced by everything from the post-war hot rod boom to Hollywood’s obsession with shiny vehicles. Leno believes this legislation will help keep the joy of collecting classic cars alive.

Concerns About Smog Checks

Smog checks can be a headache for classic car owners. Many vintage vehicles sit in garages for most of the year, only coming out for special events or shows. Mike Spagnola, who is the president of the Specialty Equipment Market Association, pointed out that these cars are well-maintained and represent only a small fraction of the cars on the road. “By exempting collector vehicles from smog checks, we can ensure that these historical treasures are preserved for future generations,” he said.

Why this Bill Now?

With the rising costs of maintaining older cars and the complicated nature of smog checks, many collectors have found it increasingly difficult to keep their beloved vehicles. This bill aims to ease some of that pressure. It’s especially relevant now as more people are looking to reconnect with hobbies that bring them joy. Classic car collecting is a passion for many, and the hope is that this bill will make it easier for enthusiasts to enjoy their vintage rides without added stress.

How Will This Affect Collectors?

If the bill passes, it could have a significant impact on classic car owners across California. Here are a few potential benefits:

Financial Relief: Exempting classic cars from smog checks could save owners money on inspections and repairs.
Encouragement for Collectors: Fewer regulations may inspire more people to invest in classic cars.
Preservation of History: Easing these requirements helps ensure that historic vehicles are kept in good condition for future generations to appreciate.

Next Steps for the Bill

As the bill moves through the legislative process, supporters are optimistic about its chances. The California State Senate will review the proposal, and if all goes well, it could soon become law. Advocates for the bill are encouraging classic car owners to share their stories and support the legislation.

How to Get Involved

For those passionate about classic cars, there are ways to support the bill. Here are some suggestions:

Contact your local representatives to express your support for Senate Bill 712.
Join classic car clubs to stay informed about the bill’s progress and advocacy efforts.
Attend community meetings or car shows to raise awareness about the importance of preserving classic vehicles.

In a world where regulations can often feel overwhelming, Senate Bill 712 offers a glimmer of hope for classic car enthusiasts. With Jay Leno’s backing and community support, there’s a chance that the joy of owning and collecting classic cars can continue to thrive in California. As the state moves forward, many will be watching closely to see how this bill unfolds.