Smog check: motor vehicles: exemption.
The proposed legislation will amend existing laws within the Health and Safety Code and the Vehicle Code, directly affecting the state's motor vehicle inspection and maintenance program administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs. By removing smog check requirements for all eligible collector vehicles, the bill is expected to reduce regulatory burdens on vehicle owners who maintain classic and historic cars, potentially encouraging their preservation and use while recognizing their lower environmental impact due to different operational characteristics compared to newer vehicles.
Senate Bill 712, introduced by Senator Grove, proposes significant changes to the current smog check requirements for collector motor vehicles in California. Under existing laws, specific exemptions apply to vehicles manufactured before the 1976 model year, and certain collector vehicles that meet specific criteria. SB712 aims to fully exempt collector motor vehicles that are at least 35 model years old from smog check requirements effective January 1, 2027, if they hold a special identification plate and are insured accordingly. The bill is also referred to as 'Lenos Law.'
The sentiment surrounding SB712 is largely positive among car enthusiasts and advocates for historical preservation. Supporters argue that the bill acknowledges the special status of collector vehicles, which are by nature infrequently driven and regulated differently from standard vehicles. However, opposition exists from environmental advocates who express concern that fewer emissions standards could undermine air quality protections, drawing attention to the ongoing debate over balancing vehicle preservation with public health.
Notable points of contention include the potential impacts of the bill on California's aggressive air quality standards, which are central to combating pollution. Critics argue that exemptions for older vehicles could lead to higher emissions overall if they are not subjected to smog checks, thereby threatening progress made in reducing air pollution levels. Conversely, advocates for the bill stress the importance of preserving cultural heritage through vehicles while ensuring that standards for emissions compliance are appropriate for vehicles that rarely contribute to emissions.