‘Leno’s Law’ Is Official: California Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Classic Car Smog Exemption Into Law

Smog check exemptions will now apply to certain vehicles across California under newly enacted legislation designated as "Leno’s Law." The statutory change follows California Governor Gavin Newsom’s visit to Jay Leno’s Garage to formally sign the bill into law. State communications present the legislation as an official effort to celebrate and preserve California’s classic car and lowrider automotive heritage, granting select older vehicles relief from standard state emissions testing requirements. Public reaction appears split between cultural preservation and environmental protection.

While state portals focus entirely on automotive traditions, The New York Times notes that Newsom enacted the bill over objections raised by environmentalists. The reporting does not elaborate on the specific environmental groups involved, nor does it detail their precise policy arguments against loosening the state's vehicle emissions standards. Crucial technical and regulatory specifics of the exemption also lack clarity.

Published accounts confirm that some classic cars will be permitted to skip smog checks, yet the coverage does not specify the qualifying model years, the compliance thresholds for lowriders, or the exact calendar date when vehicle owners can officially take advantage of the exemption.