Jay Leno Arrives at California Capitol to Advocate for Classic Cars | Carscoops

      The automotive enthusiast and comedian is advocating for a California exemption for cars aged 35 years or older from smog checks.

      On April 9, 2025, Jay Leno expressed his support for a legislative proposal that would revise the existing exemption for older vehicles established in 1975. Leno asserts that many smog testing stations lack the proper equipment to accurately evaluate vintage cars.

      California has historically enforced strict regulations on vehicle emissions, but a notable figure has now endorsed legislation that might ease these requirements, particularly for classic car aficionados. Jay Leno, who typically avoids political discussions in his routines, was recently seen at the California State Capitol promoting Senate Bill 712.

      Known as "Leno’s Law," this proposed bill aims to exempt vehicles 35 years and older from smog checks, providing a modest yet meaningful exception for classic cars.

      Currently, vehicles manufactured after 1975 are required to pass smog checks if there is a change in ownership or registration. Leno believes that many smog stations are ill-equipped to properly test older cars. The bill has garnered bipartisan support, with supporters noting that less than one percent of California's vehicles would be eligible for this exemption.

      In a light-hearted moment during his visit, Leno remarked, “I know I’m an annoying celebrity coming to Sacramento. I’ve watched some of these politicians on TV, and they often seem unaware of what they discuss. However, this is a topic I care about,” while arriving in a classic Pontiac Trans Am.

      He noted the decline of the movie industry in California, stating, “Everyone moved out because the filming costs became prohibitive. Now, many are in Texas or Georgia. We have a rich hotrod culture here,” emphasizing that several automotive manufacturers maintain hotrod design studios throughout the state. Leno expressed concern about losing the hot rod and mechanical industries as the film industry did.

      Despite the bill’s momentum, opponents argue that it could lead to the continued presence of highly polluting vehicles on the roads. It's important to note that California currently exempts cars manufactured before 1976 from its smog-check requirements; diesel vehicles produced before 1998 are also exempt. Additionally, gas-powered cars younger than eight years are not subject to smog checks. Thus, the rationale for “Leno’s Law” seems reasonable. The bill has successfully passed through the Senate Transportation Committee and now awaits further review by the Appropriations Committee.

      Though it is not yet finalized, “Leno’s Law” could potentially provide relief for vintage car enthusiasts and allow more Trans Ams to grace the streets of California without frequent trips to the smog testing stations.