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Jay Leno is back in the fight for classic cars — and this time, the stakes are higher.
A revived proposal known as “Leno’s Law” is once again making its way through California’s legislature, aiming to exempt older collector cars from strict smog check requirements. For enthusiasts, this isn’t just another policy discussion. It’s a direct battle over whether classic cars can realistically stay on the road in one of the most regulated states in the country.
A Second Shot at a Controversial Idea
The proposal, now filed as California Senate Bill 1392, is a reworked version of an earlier effort that failed in 2025. That version stalled largely due to administrative cost concerns tied to updating DMV systems, not necessarily because of lack of support from car enthusiasts.
This time, supporters believe the timing may be different.
Backed by Senator Dave Cortese, Senator Shannon Grove, and Jay Leno himself, the bill focuses on redefining what qualifies as a “collector motor vehicle.” The goal is to carve out space for older vehicles that are not used as daily transportation but instead driven occasionally — typically for shows, events, or limited recreational use.
What the Law Would Actually Do
If passed, SB 1392 would allow vehicles at least 35 years old to be exempt from California’s smog testing requirements — but with important limitations.
These cars would need to be:
- considered collector vehicles
- used primarily for exhibitions, events, or limited driving
- not relied on as a primary mode of transportation
The rollout would also be gradual.
Under the current proposal:
- Starting January 1, 2027, vehicles built before the 1981 model year would qualify
- Each year after that, the exemption would expand by one additional model year
- By 2032, vehicles built before 1986 would be included
It’s not an overnight change. It’s a phased approach designed to ease the transition while expanding access over time.
Why This Matters to Car Owners
For many classic car owners in California, smog testing has become one of the biggest barriers to keeping older vehicles roadworthy.
Cars from the 1970s and 1980s weren’t built with modern emissions systems, and finding parts — or even shops capable of tuning them to pass current standards — has become increasingly difficult.
In some cases, owners are forced to:
- park cars indefinitely
- spend significant money trying to meet requirements
- or take vehicles off the road entirely
Supporters of the bill argue that these cars represent a small fraction of total emissions, especially given how infrequently they’re driven.
From that perspective, the law isn’t about avoiding regulation. It’s about recognizing the difference between a daily driver and a preserved piece of automotive history.
The Environmental Pushback
Not everyone sees it that way.
Classic cars, particularly older V8-powered models, produce significantly more emissions than modern vehicles. Environmental groups have historically pushed back on exemptions like this, arguing that loosening standards — even for limited-use vehicles — undermines broader emissions goals.
California has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country, and any proposal that reduces oversight tends to face scrutiny.
That tension is at the core of the debate.
On one side, there’s the argument for preservation of automotive heritage. On the other, the push for continued emissions control in a state already battling air quality concerns.
Why This Version Might Have a Better Chance
Supporters believe this version of the bill has a stronger path forward for a few reasons.
First, the phased rollout helps address concerns about immediate impact. Instead of opening the door all at once, it gradually expands eligibility over several years.
Second, broader changes at the federal level — including efforts to roll back certain emissions regulations — may shift the political landscape enough to give the bill more traction.
And finally, there’s Jay Leno.
Leno isn’t just a celebrity supporter. He’s one of the most well-known car collectors in the country, with a collection of more than 180 vehicles. His involvement gives the proposal visibility and credibility within both enthusiast and legislative circles.
“I am very excited about it,” Leno said. “We came very close last time. A lot of bills don’t pass on the first go-around. I am hopeful it will pass this time.”
More Than Just a Law
At its core, this isn’t just about emissions testing. It’s about whether states like California are willing to make space for older cars in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.
As regulations tighten and newer technologies take over, classic cars are increasingly caught in the middle — not modern enough to comply easily, but too important culturally to disappear quietly.
For enthusiasts, SB 1392 represents something bigger than a policy change. It’s a test of whether car culture still has a place in a state that’s moving aggressively toward an electrified future.
What Happens Next
The bill still has a long way to go before becoming law. It will face debate, revisions, and likely opposition before any final decision is made.
But the fact that it’s back — and gaining attention again — is already significant.
Because for many classic car owners, this isn’t just about passing a test.
It’s about whether they’ll still be allowed to drive the cars they’ve spent years preserving.
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