Leno's law to ease smog checks on older cars stalls out in California legislature

"Leno's Law would have simply allowed for a few additional classic car model years to receive a full smog exemption a much needed update on an antiquated law, Grove said. Sadly, today California said no to helping preserve these rolling pieces of history and let down classic car clubs across the state, from low riders to hot rods and every American classic in between. Leno's Law was not just about the cars, it was about the enthusiasts behind the wheel."

"The bill was opposed by public health groups, air districts and environmental organizations who said it would increase smog, particularly in low-income communities where asthma rates are high among children. We're pleased it's not moving forward, said Will Barrett, assistant vice president of the American Lung Association. From a public health perspective this is a good outcome. It represented a step back from clean air protections."

SB 712, nicknamed Leno's Law, would have exempted vehicles 35 years or older from California's biennial smog check requirement. Jay Leno promoted the measure and classic car owners, hot rodders and car clubs supported the change, citing difficulty and expense of smog testing for pre-1990 vehicles and the small number remaining. The Assembly Appropriations Committee blocked the bill, preventing a full Assembly vote and killing it for the legislative session. Public health groups, air districts and environmental organizations opposed the measure, saying it would increase smog and harm low-income communities with high childhood asthma rates.

Read at www.mercurynews.com