Noise-health advocates back ban on modified vehicle exhaust; auto clubs call bill unenforceable and too broad
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Summary
Quiet Communities and public‑health witnesses called for Senate Bill 17‑16 to regulate illegal vehicle exhaust systems, citing chronic noise's health harms. The Massachusetts Association of Automobile Clubs opposed the bill as written, warning it could ban vintage and custom vehicles and be difficult to enforce.
Public‑health and noise‑reduction advocates told the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security that Senate Bill 17‑16 should be enacted to regulate illegal and modified vehicle exhaust systems. Jamie Banks of Quiet Communities characterized modified vehicle noise as having low‑frequency components that travel long distances and disrupt sleep, contributing to cardiovascular and other health harms.
Banks cited public‑health literature linking chronic noise exposure to higher risks of ischemic heart disease, stroke, sleep disruption and other conditions, and called for stronger state regulation to protect domestic tranquility and community health.
William Ellis, representing the Massachusetts Association of Automobile Clubs, testified in opposition. Ellis said the bill as drafted could unintentionally prohibit historic or rare vehicles for which original equipment manufacturer parts are no longer available. He said the proposal would be unenforceable, raise conflicts with federal and neighboring states' rules, and that the Department of Motor Vehicles should lead vehicle noise standards. Ellis offered that the bill should be revised to exclude certain vehicles or clarify enforcement.
Committee members recessed for roll calls after the item; no committee vote on S17‑16 was recorded in the transcript.