Sponsors (26)
The bill would expand federal attention, funding, research, and coordination to reduce harmful environmental noise and improve public health and local capacity, but it increases federal spending, creates potential regulatory and administrative costs, raises questions about local control and legal transitions, and depends on future appropriations for many promised benefits.
Local governments and communities (urban and rural) would receive federal grants and funding (including a $25M/year authorization through 2030 and expanded Quiet Communities grant uses) to plan, buy equipment, train staff, and implement noise‑mitigation and enforcement programs.
Residents in noisy areas (e.g., near airports, highways, and railroads), people with hearing impairment, and the general population could see improved health and quality of life through reduced noise exposure (hearing protection, lower cardiovascular/stress risks, better sleep).
Establishing/funding a federal focal office and reestablishing EPA noise program roles would improve federal coordination, standards, labeling, and technical support for quieter products and consistent local implementation.
Taxpayers would face increased federal spending and potential indirect costs (the bill authorizes about $125M over five years if appropriated and expands grant uses), creating budgetary impacts.
Manufacturers and businesses could face new regulatory requirements or standards if EPA reengages on noise controls, which may raise compliance costs and product prices.
Clarifying federal authority and cross‑references and potential federal preemption could limit local control and flexibility over noise policy and how communities prioritize grant-funded activities.
Based on analysis of 5 sections of legislative text.
Reestablishes an EPA Office of Noise Abatement to fund research, grants, technical assistance, and an aircraft-noise study; authorizes $25M/year for FY2026–2030.
Introduced September 4, 2025 by Grace Meng · Last progress September 4, 2025
Creates a new Office of Noise Abatement and Control inside the EPA to study and reduce harmful community noise, provide grants and technical help to states and localities, develop public education and training, and run regional assistance centers. Requires an independent aircraft-noise study and report to Congress within two years and authorizes $25 million per year for fiscal years 2026–2030 to support the office's work.