Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act

This bill creates a small FAA pilot program at up to four large airports to fix or replace old or faulty soundproofing in nearby homes. It allows a one-time waiver so homes that already got federally backed sound insulation can get help again. For these projects, past federal spending on that home won’t count against the cost calculation, making it easier to fund needed repairs. The FAA must set up the program within 120 days after the bill becomes law.

Homes must be in the airport noise zone on the FAA’s most recent map (65–75 dB), have soundproofing installed before 2002, and show, through an audit and tests, that earlier work caused damage or deteriorated, that indoor noise is still above 45 dB, and that new work can cut noise by at least 5 dB .

Key points

• Who is affected: Residents near large airports whose homes were soundproofed before 2002 and now have damage or poor performance; airports that already run a local noise program.
• What changes: A one-time waiver lets these homes receive help again; the government ignores past federal spending when figuring allowed project costs; owners and airports must first try warranties, insurance, and legal remedies; airports may conduct surveys (with interested owners) to check past work and find eligible homes .
• When: The FAA must launch the pilot within 120 days after enactment; the program can cover up to four large airports.