Newsom Signs Leno's Law, Lowrider Plate in California Car Culture Push

Key points

• SB 1392 creates a phased smog exemption for collector cars built between 1976 and 1985, starting Jan. 1, 2028, with one model year added annually until 2033.
• To qualify, vehicles must be insured as collector vehicles or driven less than 1,000 miles per year, limiting the exemption to low-use historic cars.
• AB 2541 establishes a specialized license plate honoring lowrider heritage, rooted in Chicano and Latino cultural identity.
• Newsom also signed SB 1069 to expedite state review of aftermarket vehicle parts.
• The laws follow earlier efforts, including AB 436 (2023), which legalized lowrider cruising and removed restrictions on lowered vehicles.

Background

California has long struggled to balance strict emissions standards with its rich car culture. Prior to these laws, classic car owners faced fines and restrictions, while lowrider communities were often policed rather than celebrated. Recent legislative efforts, such as AB 436, began to address these tensions by legalizing lowrider cruising and removing outdated restrictions on lowered vehicles. The new laws build on this momentum, aiming to preserve automotive heritage while maintaining environmental goals.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and the governor's office emphasize the cultural significance of the laws, framing them as a way to honor California's automotive heritage. The New York Times highlights environmentalist objections, noting that the exemption was signed despite concerns about emissions. CBS News focuses on the phased implementation and the narrow scope of the exemption, stressing that the affected vehicles contribute minimally to statewide emissions. The governor's office also highlights California's progress in electric vehicle adoption, with 2.5 million EV sales and 216,445 public charging ports, to underscore the state's commitment to clean transportation.

Why it matters

These laws represent a significant shift in California's approach to car culture, balancing environmental regulations with cultural preservation. The smog exemption for collector cars and the lowrider license plate provide tangible recognition for communities that have long felt marginalized by state policies. Additionally, the expedited review of aftermarket parts could benefit the automotive industry by reducing bureaucratic hurdles. These measures reflect a broader effort to reconcile California's environmental leadership with its diverse cultural traditions.

What to watch

The smog exemption will take effect in phases, starting with model years 1976-1980 on Jan. 1, 2028, and expanding annually until 1985 is included by 2033. The lowrider license plate program is expected to launch soon, providing a visible symbol of cultural pride. The expedited review process for aftermarket parts may lead to faster approvals for manufacturers, potentially impacting the automotive industry. Ongoing debates about emissions and cultural preservation are likely to continue as the laws are implemented.