California expands classic car smog exemptions, creates lowrider plate
THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ)— California is making changes aimed at classic car owners and the state’s lowrider community, with two new laws signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
Newsom signed Senate Bill 1392, known as Jay Leno’s Law, and Assembly Bill 2541 on September 16. One changes smog-check requirements for certain collector cars, while the other establishes a specialty license plate honoring California’s lowrider heritage.
Jay Leno’s Law
Jay Leno’s Law creates a phased-in smog-check exemption for qualifying collector vehicles from the 1976 through 1985 model years.
The changes will not happen all at once. The first phase begins January 1, 2028, with additional model years becoming eligible over the following years.
The exemption is limited to qualifying collector vehicles. According to the state, eligible cars must be insured as collector vehicles or driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The law is aimed at vehicles preserved for limited use rather than everyday transportation.
Local master auto technician Kyle Lafond said the change could have an impact on classic car owners in the Coachella Valley.
Lafond said some owners may be more willing to repair older vehicles that have been sitting in garages if they are able to qualify for the exemption and get those cars back on the road.
He also said that could mean additional work for local mechanics and auto shops that service older vehicles.
California creates lowrider specialty plate
A second new law, Assembly Bill 2541, establishes a specialized California license plate honoring lowrider culture.
State officials describe lowriding as a tradition with deep roots in Latino and Chicano art, identity and community across California. Money generated through the program will help support youth engagement along with lowrider-related arts and cultural programs.
The new law follows legislation signed in 2023 that removed state restrictions allowing local governments to ban lowrider cruising.
Lafond said lowriders have long been part of car culture in the Coachella Valley and said he already knows local car enthusiasts interested in getting the specialty plate once it becomes available.
Together, the two new laws could bring changes for classic car owners, local auto shops and lowrider enthusiasts throughout the Coachella Valley.
Stay tuned for the full story tonight at 10 and 11 on News Channel 3.
