California's "Leno Bill" Revived to Exempt Eligible Classic Cars from Emissions Testing

California Senate Bill 1392 (SB 1392)—commonly known as the "Leno Bill"—has been reintroduced and could soon grant emissions inspection exemptions for classic cars. Backed by well-known car enthusiast and comedian Jay Leno, the bill would exempt vehicles registered as "collector vehicles" and primarily used for shows, parades, and other non-daily purposes—provided they are at least 35 years old—from emissions testing. Initially, the exemption would apply to model year 1981 and older vehicles, with the cutoff gradually rolling forward each year until 2032, ultimately including vehicles up to the 1986 model year. Currently, California only exempts gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured before 1976 from emissions inspections. If passed, the bill is expected to generate over 17,000 applications. However, it’s important to note that ordinary older vehicles or modified cars would not qualify; only those specifically registered and insured as collector vehicles would be eligible for the exemption.