From the Washington, D.C., office
Leno's Law, the California legislation that seeks to expand the preservation of historic vehicles, continues to truck forward. Senate Bill 712, the legislation's formal name, passed the Assembly Transportation Committee this week with bipartisan support, marking another important step toward modernizing California's outdated smog check rules for collector vehicles.
Take a minute to voice your support for "Leno's Law" and help protect jobs, heritage and small businesses. Tell legislators to pass the bill now. (It seriously only takes a minute!)
The bill, strongly supported by SEMA and the enthusiast community, creates a new, optional exemption pathway for vintage vehicles. In the current, amended version, the exemption will begin in 2027 for model years '76–'81, with one additional year added annually until the exemption covers vehicles from 1986. Vehicles must also carry collector car insurance and display historical plates—measures designed to ensure the exemption is used as intended.
- The core of the bill remains intact, helping fuel the increased momentum it needs to become law. Leno's Law continues to be a fair, enforceable path for vintage vehicle owners to maintain and enjoy their cars without outdated testing burdens or impractical inspections.
"SEMA believes that this version of the bill improves on current law and ensures that future generations have access to car culture without unnecessary barriers" said Victor Muñoz, SEMA's California-based senior manager for state government affairs. "These cars are part of our history, and they deserve a path forward that reflects how they're actually used."
SEMA urges industry members to stay engaged as the bill heads to Assembly Appropriations. The finish line is in sight—and the future of California's car culture is riding on it.
For more information on how to support Leno's Law and to stay updated on its progress, contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.
