The bill will impact state laws related to the motor vehicle inspection and maintenance (smog check) program administered by the California Department of Consumer Affairs. By exempting a larger number of older vehicles from inspections, the bill will reduce the frequency with which these cars must be tested for emissions compliance. Proponents argue that this will alleviate costs and logistical hurdles for vehicle owners, fostering an environment conducive to the preservation of classic cars.
Assembly Bill 220 seeks to amend Section 44011 of the Health and Safety Code by expanding the exemption from the biennial smog check inspections for motor vehicles. Currently, vehicles manufactured prior to the 1976 model year are exempt, while AB220 proposes to extend this exemption to vehicles manufactured prior to the 1983 model year, provided these vehicles are insured as collector motor vehicles. This change is aimed at reducing the regulatory burden on owners of older vehicles while promoting the preservation of collector cars.
The sentiment around AB220 is somewhat mixed, as proponents praise it for supporting car collectors and reducing unnecessary inspections for low-emission older vehicles. However, concerns have been raised regarding environmental implications, as these older vehicles may not meet current emissions standards and could contribute to air pollution. The debate centers on balancing support for classic car enthusiasts and the need to maintain rigorous air quality standards.
Notable contention exists around the potential environmental impact of exempting older vehicles from the smog check program. Critics choose to highlight that allowing more pre-1983 vehicles to operate without regular emissions testing may contribute to higher levels of air pollution, particularly in urban areas where vehicle emissions are a significant concern. This raises questions about whether the benefits to vehicle collectors outweigh the potential environmental costs experienced by the state overall.