SB 1392(Cortese)-Smog check:exemption:collector motor vehicles-Support( as amended on 5/14/26) - letter

Sep 15, 2026

Uploaded by Eliana

Letter dated May 27, 2026 supporting SB 1392 (Cortese), which modernizes smog check exemptions for classic and collector motor vehicles. The writer explains that SB 1392 would define collector vehicles as those at least 35 years old, used primarily for shows, parades, charitable functions, and historical exhibitions, and not as the owner’s primary transportation mode. The bill would exempt qualifying vehicles from certain compliance requirements and phase in relief from biennial smog checks starting model-year 2028, backed by SEMA impact and operational challenges for pre-OBD-II testing.

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Re: SB 1392(Cortese) - Smog check exemption: collector motor vehicles - Support

Definition and eligibility for collector motor vehicles

Exemption from certificate requirements and biennial smog check relief

Testing challenges for pre-OBD-II vehicles

Economic and community rationale

Scott Tyrrell Robert Rickman Chiefof Staff Board of SupervisorsRepresenting the Fifth District Maria Valenzuela Board Aide 44N.San Joaquin St. Suite 627 Stockton,CA 95202 Ph:209-468-3113 Fax:209-468-2189 May 27,2026 The Honorable Lori D.Wilson,ChairAssembly Transportation Committee1020 N Street,Suite 112Sacramento,CA95814 # Re: SB 1392(Cortese)-Smog check:exemption:collector motorvehicles.-Support(as amended on5/14/26) Dear Chair Wilson, lam writing to inform you of my support for SB 1392,which aims to modernize smog check exemptions forclassic and collector motor vehicles.I previously supported SB712 and appreciate these efforts on behalfof California car enthusiasts and a culture and industry that fuels our state's economy. According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA),the aftermarket industry alonegenerates more than $40 billion in economic impact,supporting approximately 150,000 jobs,$14 billion inwages and benefits,and $6 billion in taxes. SB 1392 would redefine collector motorvehicle to mean a vehicle that is at least 35 years old,is usedprimarily in shows,parades,charitable functions,and historical exhibitions,is not used as the owner'sprimary mode of transportation,and is insured as a collector motor vehicle,as specified.The bill wouldexempt a collector motor vehicle manufactured before the 1981 modelyear from the requirement toobtain a certificate of compliance or noncompliance and,provides a pathway for qualifying collectorvehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement,requires collector-vehicleinsurance with proof at registration,and phases in eligibility by one model year each year,beginningJanuary 1,2028,until the final extension takes effect on and after January 1,2032. This exemption addresses challenges classic car owners face.Maintaining compliance is increasinglydifficult as fewer smog stations are equipped to test older vehicles.According to SEMA,only 7%ofCalifornia smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-Il vehicles,and many STAR-certified stations test fewerthan one of these vehicles per day,making it cost prohibitive for smog shops to maintain the specializedequipment needed to test older vehicles. For those who have a passion for restoring classic or vintage vehicles,California's stringent testingrequirements often require expensive modifications that may compromise the historical authenticity ofthese automotive gems.These hurdles have led many enthusiasts to relocate to more car-friendly stateslike Arizona,Texas,and Nevada. "Ihope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain(what I consider the most enviable ofall itles),the characterof an honest man.”-George Washington- SB 1392(CORTESE)-SMOG CHECK:EXEMPTION:COLLECTOR MOTOR VEHICLES.-SUPPORT(ASAMENDED ON 5/14/26) Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions,weekends or to car shows,minimizing theirenvironmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles.SB 1392 updates current law to reflect howcollector vehicles are carefully maintained and minimally operated. I reaffirm my support for this important effort-spurred bySB712known as Leno's Law-carried forward bySB 1392,which will make it clear that California is a classic car friendly state-some consider thebirthplace of hot rodding-and supports our state's aftermarket parts industry worth billions to oureconomy. Xoeman Robert RickmanSupervisor,Fifth DistrictSan Joaquin County C: San Joaquin County Legislative DelegationSan Joaquin County CAOSan Joaquin County COBSenator Dave Cortese,Senate District 15 DTG:14726/01ST

FAQs

What does SB 1392 (Cortese) aim to change regarding smog check exemptions?

SB 1392 modernizes smog check exemptions for classic and collector motor vehicles by redefining eligible collector vehicles and providing a pathway to relief from biennial smog check requirements.

How does the bill define a “collector motor vehicle” under SB 1392?

It generally means a vehicle at least 35 years old, primarily used for shows, parades, charitable functions, and historical exhibitions, not used as the owner’s primary transportation mode, and insured as a collector motor vehicle per the bill’s specifications.

Why are smog check exemptions particularly important for older/classic vehicles?

The letter cites limited availability of smog stations equipped to test older pre-OBD-II vehicles and low testing volume, making it costly for stations to maintain specialized equipment.

Sep 15, 2026

Uploaded by Eliana