"'Widespread Fraud' in California's Smog Test Program"

"Nearly a third of older-model cars stopped for roadside smog tests in Southern California failed them, despite having received a passing grade at inspection stations within a year, a state audit has found.

The results of those surprise inspections of 6,000 models manufactured before 1996 have led law enforcement officials to crack down on unscrupulous stations, step up fines and file more criminal charges.

Legislation introduced in the California Assembly this week would allow the state to bar low-performing test stations from conducting smog checks."

Margot Roosevelt reports for the Los Angeles Times February 25, 2010.