California is considering new legislation regarding smog checks for older vehicles, thanks to the efforts of comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno. The bill, known as SB 712 or “Leno’s Law,” initially aimed to exempt cars that are 35 years or older from the state’s biannual smog check requirements. These checks can be quite costly and challenging for owners of classic cars, such as those built before 1990. Many car collectors and enthusiasts have supported this bill, arguing that older cars are increasingly rare and much of their time is spent in garages rather than on the road.
However, health groups raised concerns that allowing more older vehicles to bypass smog checks could worsen air quality. In response, lawmakers amended the bill to introduce stricter eligibility requirements. Now, cars that wish to claim the exemption must hold a historical vehicle license plate and the owner must have collector’s car insurance. These changes mean that eligible cars can only be driven during specific events like parades or exhibitions and must usually stay locked in a garage.
These amendments have disappointed some classic car collectors, who feel they restrict the enjoyment and usage of their vehicles. For example, Mike Frankovich, a classic car owner and enthusiast, has expressed frustration about the difficulties involved in getting smog checks for older vehicles. He emphasizes that many classic cars are not used as everyday transportation, which he believes should exempt them from strict regulations.
Opponents of the bill have pointed out the air quality implications of older vehicles, some of which can emit over 100 times more pollution than newer models. They argue that while car collecting is a hobby, maintaining clean air quality should take precedence.
As this legislation moves forward, it highlights the ongoing struggle to balance car culture with public health concerns in California, a state known for its love of cars.
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Source: American Lung Association.
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