Today, Senator Shannon Grove is revved up to announce that Senate Bill 712, also known as Leno’s Law, has cleared a major legislative hurdle, the Senate Appropriations Committee with bipartisan support. This legislation, sponsored by legendary comedian and automotive collector Jay Leno, removes outdated smog check requirements for classic vehicles that are 35 model years or older, ensuring these icons of California’s rich automotive history.
“I’m excited to see SB 712 advance through the Senate Appropriations Committee with strong bipartisan backing,” said Senator Shannon Grove. “These classic cars aren’t just vehicles, they embody generations of craftsmanship, culture, and community pride. This bill protects small businesses, empowers car enthusiasts, and preserves a vital piece of California’s heritage.”
“The Senate Appropriations Committee has added new language to the bill, which I look forward to reviewing. While I have concerns about the amendments, I remain optimistic that we can work to improve the language as the bill continues through the legislative process,” concluded Senator Shannon Grove.
Sponsored by Jay Leno, a lifelong advocate for automotive culture, SB 712 recognizes that collector vehicles, only driven for special occasions or car shows, have minimal environmental impact and deserve updated regulations.
“California helped invent car culture, from lowriders in East L.A. to muscle cars in the Central Valley. These cars tell our story,” said Jay Leno. “SB 712 is about keeping that story alive. These vehicles are only driven occasionally, not daily, and it makes sense to treat them differently. I’m proud to work with Senator Grove and thank the committee for supporting our automotive legacy.”
The Senate Appropriations Committee’s approval of SB 712 acknowledges its role in supporting California’s $40.44 billion specialty automotive aftermarket industry, which sustains over 149,000 jobs and contributes $6.16 billion in state and local taxes, according to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). By removing unnecessary smog check requirements, this bill help ease financial and regulatory burdens on collectors and small businesses while preserving California’s automotive heritage.
“This bill ensures California remains a home for car enthusiasts—whether you’re restoring a ‘76 Trans Am, cruising in a lowrider, or enjoying a local car show,” added Senator Grove. “We’re embracing the history, innovation, and pride of these collector cars.”
SB 712 will now move forward to the Senate for a full floor vote. For more information, follow @ShannonGroveCA.