Jay Leno Supports Lifting Smog Checks For California Classic Cars

Former Tonight Show host and comedian Jay Leno is backing a new bill in California which would wave the smog check requirement for certain classic cars. In fact, Senate Bill 172 is being called “Leno’s Law” already.

Son builds a 1967 Camaro for his dad, just like he used to own.

If the bill passes, it would do away with the current requirement in California of a biennial smog check for any car that’s 35 model years or older. The catch is the vehicle has to be insured as a collector car.

For those who don’t know, collector car insurance is extended based on more limited use of a vehicle. Most policies put a hard cap on how many miles can be logged in a year, insuring that you’re not using the car to commute or do other daily tasks.

The bill, which is sponsored by State Senator Shannon Grove, is supposed to keep the Golden State friendly to car enthusiasts. We personally know some who have either heavily considered or actually taken the plunge and moved because they feel the hobby is no longer respected or tolerated there.

“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,” Grove said in a statement.

Considering the history California has when it comes to automotive culture, and the industry which has sprouted up around it, we can understand why Grove and Leno would be working to preserve what’s left of it.

One big question is will this bill pass and become law? We’re sure some will have a problem with it considering how aggressively some have pursued the goal of downright outlawing internal combustion engines. But classic cars contribute little to air pollution since they’re driven irregularly.

“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,” Leno said.

Source: Fox 5 San Diego

Image via Jay Leno’s Garage/YouTube