From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
Industry advocate Jay Leno, left, and SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, right, gave testimony in a Senate committee hearing earlier this year, stressing the importance of passing SB 712 and how it ensures future generations will have a way into car culture--without unnecessary barriers.
Last week, California's Assembly Appropriations Committee held Leno's Law (SB 712), preventing it from moving forward in 2025. While this decision is disappointing, it does not mark the end of the road for this law. In fact, it signals the beginning of a new chapter in our fight to protect and preserve California's automotive heritage.
But first, some context. This year, Leno's Law made historic strides. It passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support and cleared the Assembly Transportation Committee unanimously. These milestones represent the most significant progress on this issue in more than two decades. For the first time in 20 years, lawmakers across the political spectrum acknowledged the need for thoughtful reform to California's smog check program--one that respects both environmental goals and the passion of car enthusiasts.
Leno's Law, named after legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno, would have created a new smog check exemption for vehicles insured as collector cars and displaying California Historical Vehicle license plates, provided they were between model years '76 and '86. These provisions were designed to ensure responsible use and enforcement, targeting vehicles that are rarely driven, meticulously maintained, and owned for their historical and enthusiast value, which is a reflection of California's deep-rooted car culture.
In response to the recent Leno's Law news, SEMA says: "We're disappointed that Leno's Law (SB 712) was held in committee, but proud of the momentum it created," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "This was the most progress on smog check reform in over 20 years. Thanks to the passion of enthusiasts, builders and small businesses, lawmakers seriously considered expanding California's exemption for the first time since 2004. The bill wasn't perfect, but it was a meaningful step forward. We're grateful to Senator Shannon Grove, Senator Dave Cortese and Jay Leno for their leadership. We'll be back to finish what we started."
What's Next for Leno's Law
Though SB 712 will not move forward this calendar year, its journey has galvanized support across the state and laid the groundwork for future success. The movement is growing, and the foundation laid this year is stronger than ever. SEMA remains committed to working with lawmakers, regulators and the community to craft a solution that honors California's legacy as the heart of car culture.
SEMA thanks its members, industry partners and the enthusiast community for their tireless advocacy. Your voices were heard loud and clear in Sacramento, and they will continue to resonate as we prepare for 2026. Thank you for standing with us. The fight isn't over, and together, we'll keep the pedal down.
For updates and ways to stay involved, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.
