Classic Car Owners Could Soon Receive Long-Sought Relief as Senator Cortese’s SB 1392 Advances to the Governor’s Desk

SACRAMENTO, CA — California State Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) announced that his Senate Bill 1392, known as “Jay Leno’s Law,” has cleared the California Legislature and now advances to the Governor’s desk, where it awaits his signature. 

The bill would provide smog-check exemptions for qualifying vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985 that are carefully maintained and primarily operated for parades, car shows, exhibitions, and charitable events.

“California can protect clean air without erasing our automotive history. A classic car that spends most of its life in a garage and comes out for a parade, car show or charity event is not the same as a daily commuter, and our laws should recognize that,” said Senator Cortese. “SB 1392 brings common sense back to the smog-check system, protects a treasured part of California culture, and gives classic car owners a fair shot at preserving these pieces of history. We’ve cleared the Legislature. Now it’s time to put ‘Leno’s Law’ on the Governor’s desk and get it signed.” 

The legislation is narrowly tailored to a small number of historically significant vehicles that are not used as everyday transportation. Because these vehicles are driven only occasionally for special events and are carefully maintained by their owners, SB 1392 preserves California’s automotive traditions without creating a meaningful new source of everyday vehicle emissions.

"I live to restore memories, not just to restore cars. Leno's Law will preserve that ability not just for me but for the entire California car community and ensure future generations can live their best lives through these vehicles. If this law passes, I will be able to hand down my 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass to my daughter knowing that our traditions and community remain alive and well,” said Carmen Vera, owner of Pasadena Classic Car.

“This bill is a step toward restoring the Golden State’s rightful place as the pinnacle our nation’s automotive heritage, where our vehicles unify us, remind us of family and important moments, and celebrate engineering ingenuity and economic empowerment. We thank all the lawmakers who continued to press forward with this effort,” from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

Contact:

Mario B. Lopez, Communications Director

Office of Senator Dave Cortese | District 15

Phone: 408-545-8205 | Email: Mario.lopez@sen.ca.gov

For Scheduling Interviews

Natasha Waxman, Executive Assistant 

Office of Senator Dave Cortese | District 15

Email: natasha.waxman@sen.ca.gov

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