California law now prevents local authorities from imposing bans on lowriders and cruising.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom Signs Bill Repealing 40-Year Law on Lowriding and Cruising
In an exciting move, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill on October 13 that overturns a four-decade-old law allowing local jurisdictions to regulate or ban lowriding and cruising in their communities. This new legislation, known as Assembly Bill 436, authored by Assemblyman David Alvarez (D–Chula Vista), puts an end to the 1982 state law that gave cities the power to restrict cruising in order to protect local businesses and mitigate traffic, noise, and pollution levels in areas where lowrider communities gather.
The bill also reverses a previous law that prohibited lowering the body of a vehicle below the lowest point of its rims, a common feature in lowriders.
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“Cruising is part of culture for many multicultural communities, a way of expressing love for art, and bringing unity,” stated Mr. Alvarez. “Since the 1980s, cities across the state began permitting these local bans. That was an unfair and targeting move. It is time that we repeal these local ordinances to allow multicultural communities to express their love for these amazing vehicles.”
Lowriders are renowned for their vibrant designs, lowered bodies, and height-adjustable suspension fitted with hydraulics, enabling the cars to bounce up and down while cruising at low speeds.
Advocates in lowrider communities have long fought against local regulations, and their efforts have seen recent successes in Sacramento and National City. Both cities repealed bans that had been in place for over 30 years.
According to the bill analysis, regulations on cruising date back to the 1970s when Los Angeles prohibited parking on Van Nuys Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley and converted it into a one-way street to discourage cruising. In response, around 15,000 people gathered on the street to protest the decision.
Cruising gained popularity in the United States following the release of the 1973 comedy-drama film “American Graffiti,” which grossed over $200 million with a budget of just $1 million. Set in 1960s Modesto, California, the movie depicted a group of friends cruising the streets before heading off to college. Modesto itself implemented a cruising ban in the 1990s.
The new law overturns the state’s 1982 authorization for cities to create their own cruising regulations. Under the existing law, cities are prohibited from enforcing any ordinances related to the state’s Vehicle Code unless expressly authorized.
Supporters of the bill include the California Lowrider Alliance, a coalition of lowrider enthusiasts, as well as various local cities, government officials, and related organizations.
In a letter of support, the Sacramento Lowrider Commission, part of the statewide alliance, argued that “No Cruising” laws only served to racially profile members of the lowrider community.
“The No Cruising laws are an application of the inequities and racial profiling of a car culture that is family-oriented and an expression of the vehicle owner’s art on wheels,” they wrote.
The commission revealed that after questioning authorities from several cities, including Sacramento, Modesto, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Fresno, San Jose, and Santa Rosa, it was discovered that these local ordinances had never been enforced. The California Highway Patrol had only enforced the law against lowered vehicles 19 times since 1959.
“So why criminalize lowriders with No Cruising and lowered vehicle laws if the need for these laws and ordinances does not exist?” they questioned.
Francine Mata, President of the Sacramento Lowrider Commission, emphasized that the lowrider community is diverse and family-oriented.
“Even within Sacramento, we engage in over 100 community events every year, which amounts to approximately 1500 hours of community service. This group brings together people of all backgrounds, colors, and ages. We are here to project unity and dispel the notion that we are criminals or gang members,” she said.
The Peace Officers Research Association of California, a federation of law enforcement agencies in the state, opposed the repeal of the original law. They expressed concerns about narcotics activity, assaults, possession of firearms, gang violence, and the negative impact on businesses resulting from gatherings organized by lowrider communities.
The group argued that the repeal would further burden law enforcement, who already respond to various types of large gatherings from car enthusiast communities, including street takeovers and street racing.
What was the significance of the Dependence Day Parade on Sept. 8, 2018 in Los Angeles, California?
Dependence Day Parade on Sept. 8, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Opponents of the bill, however, argue that repealing the cruising bans will lead to an increase in street racing and illegal activities. They express concerns about public safety and noise disturbances in residential areas. These concerns are also shared by some residents in communities where lowrider gatherings are prevalent.
California is known for its car culture, and lowriding has always been an integral part of it. Lowriders have become iconic symbols of artistic expression and cultural identity for many multicultural communities in the state. The overturning of the 40-year-old law signifies a step towards acknowledging and appreciating this cultural phenomenon.
With Assembly Bill 436 now in effect, Californians will be able to enjoy lowriding and cruising without the fear of facing local bans and restrictions. It is a time for celebration and an opportunity for lowrider enthusiasts to showcase their passion and love for these unique vehicles.
As California moves forward, it is essential to strike a balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring public safety. The state can explore alternative measures to regulate lowrider activities and address concerns related to noise, pollution, and traffic. By working collaboratively with lowrider communities, local governments, and law enforcement agencies, California can find a solution that allows for the coexistence of car culture and public safety.
As the cruising restrictions are lifted, we might see a resurgence of lowriding events and gatherings across the state. This could be an opportunity for tourism and economic growth in cities that embrace and support the lowrider culture. It is important for local businesses and communities to recognize the positive impact that lowriders can have on the economy and local pride.
Overall, the signing of Assembly Bill 436 by Gov. Gavin Newsom marks a significant milestone in California’s car culture history. It not only repeals an outdated law but also paves the way for the recognition and celebration of lowriders as an integral part of the state’s cultural fabric. It is a step towards embracing diversity, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting unity through the love of art and unique vehicles.
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