Jay Leno drives to a rehearsal for the 1993 Emmy awards in one of his antique cars, the Hispano-Suiza 8 special from 1915. Cropped photo by Alan Light on Flickr under Creative Commons license https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en

State Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) announced the introduction of Senate Bill 712, also known as Leno’s Law, to remove what they call unnecessary and burdensome smog check requirements for classic vehicles.

Leno’s Law is sponsored by renowned car enthusiast and television icon Jay Leno, and seeks to fully exempt collector motor vehicles at least 35 model years or older from the biennial smog check program provided they are insured as collector vehicles.

“California’s rich classic car culture, sparked by the post-war hot rod boom and boosted by Hollywood’s love for chrome and horsepower, has made it a paradise for enthusiasts like me. From the start, California has been a driving force in shaping car culture, with deep ties to classic cars and a global reputation as a hub for these timeless machines,” said Jay Leno. “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. 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.”

 

“California has a rich automotive heritage, with some of the first classic cars rolling off assembly lines right here in our state,” said Sen. Shannon Grove. “These rolling pieces of history are more than just vehicles—they have strong cultural ties in our communities and supply thousands of jobs in the aftermarket parts 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.”

The legislation addresses smog check requirements that often hinder classic car owners, according to a news release. California’s automotive legacy dates back over a century, with early manufacturers like Studebaker and Pontiac setting up shop in the state. Today, the aftermarket parts industry for these vehicles generates billions annually, supporting jobs and small businesses. SB 712 aims to safeguard this economic engine while honoring the state’s pioneering role in car culture, according to the release.

“These vehicles are rarely driven, meticulously maintained, and represent only a 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,” said Mike Spagnola, president and CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).

Representing the $52 billion specialty automotive aftermarket industry, SEMA is a trade association based in Diamond Bar made up of approximately 7,000 small businesses nationwide, including 1,066 in California. Members manufacture, market and sell specialty automotive aftermarket products, including restoration, appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for motor vehicles.

California’s specialty automotive aftermarket industry generates $40.44 billion in economic impact, according to the release. This translates to supporting 149,325 jobs, $13.47 billion in total wages and benefits and $6.16 billion in taxes paid.

“From car shows to weekend cruises, classic cars bring people together and keep our history vibrant,” added Sen. Grove. “With Jay Leno’s support, we’re sending a clear message: California values its automotive roots and the communities that keep them running.”

The bill is expected to move through the legislative process in the coming months, with strong backing from car clubs, industry leaders, and enthusiasts statewide. The first bill hearing will be in the Senate Transportation Committee in April.