SACRAMENTO, CA — This week, Assemblymember Mark González (D – Los Angeles) celebrated AB 2541, a bill that, if signed into law, will create a specialty license plate honoring lowrider heritage. Funds generated from this program will be reinvested into lowrider programming and non-profits statewide!
“As California once again looks to uplift our lowrider community, we must center ourselves and remind each other what lowriding is truly about,” said Asm. Mark González. “It’s never been just about the cars, it’s about cultura, pride, and making the invisible visible.”
The History of Lowriders in California:
For decades, the State of California has levied hefty fines and placed discriminatory bans against modified cars, targeting lowriders explicitly. On top of that, localities enforced anti-cruising ordinances. Despite the oppression, the community persevered, finding ways to honor their traditions and culture.
In 2024, AB 436 went into law, reversing course and legalizing low-riding in the State of California.
“Lowriding has deep roots in California, and it is a beautiful artform that needs to be supported,” said Sacramento Mayor Pro Tem Eric Guerra. “Sacramento has stood strong to stand up against the discrimination and stigma that the lowrider community has had to endure. AB 2541 brings people together and helps us as a community to invest in the arts that is inclusive. Our strong car culture has inspired our young people and ensure there is funding to support the arts.”
“Lowriders have always shown up for California,” said Kimberly Gudino, Executive Director of Brown Issues, who is sponsoring AB 2541. “Now, AB 2541 gives California the opportunity to show up for them, while funding the very communities that built the culture and youth who will preserve and carry the legacy forward.”
What is Lowriding:
The Lowrider community was built in the 1950s, when cars were customized as a symbol of cultural expression. These masterpieces are often painted in vibrant colors, lined with geometric patterns, and display religious symbols. As they cruise the streets, their vehicles tell a story of perseverance, resistance, and freedom. They are a reminder that Latino heritage is American heritage.
In code, there is no current means of supporting low rider culture, outside of the bill that prohibits banning them. Especially in a time where the Latino/Chicano community has faced such a strong level of hate and oppression by this federal administration, a mechanism that generates revenue for the purposes of supporting the culture must be a priority.
“Low riders are an important expression of culture, values, and creativity,” said Senator Susan Rubio. “We should not shrink our culture or our identity. This bill is crucial for preserving this artform, along with highlighting the impactful contributions and initiatives occurring within our communities.”
“Lowriding is storytelling on wheels, honoring generations of heritage, resilience, and creativity rooted in our communities, said Asm. Mark González. And just like a lowrider, this specialized license plate is more than a visual statement; it’s an investment back into the people, ensuring that our cultura continues to thrive and be celebrated for generations to come. Thank you to our Sponsor, Brown Issues, for fighting alongside me in pushing to honor our cultura.”
Assemblymember Mark González is the Assembly Majority Whip. He serves on the Committees on Appropriations, Health, Public Safety, Rules, and Utilities & Energy. He represents the 54th District, composed of the cities of Los Angeles, Commerce, Montebello, and Vernon.