Delaware Street Rodders Win Emissions Exemption

Street rodders in Delaware report that Governor Thomas Carper signed H.B. 494 into law, exempting street rods from the requirements of the state's emissions inspection. The bill allows street rods, unlike antique vehicles, to be used for daily transportation and requires valid liability insurance. Under the law, street rods are defined as vehicles manufactured prior to 1949 that have been modified for safe road use, or kit cars resembling an original pre-1949 vehicle. Further, the bill describes the requirements that must be met in order for a street rod to pass the state's safety inspection, including a new provision allowing a 7-inch minimum height for windshields. The bill received heavy backing from the Mid Atlantic Street Rod Association (MASRA) and Delaware Street Rods, Inc. According to SAN contact Mark Warrington, former VP of Delaware Street Rods, Inc., "This law creates a level playing field and codifies the rules for everyone. All the specialty car clubs in Delaware are pleased with the legislation."