Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act

Summary

The "Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act" aims to establish pilot programs for repairing or replacing sound insulation in residences near large hub airports. It amends Title 49 of the United States Code to allow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to grant waivers for projects addressing deteriorated or ineffective sound insulation. The bill focuses on residences within specific noise contours (65-75 dB DNL) that previously received federal assistance for sound insulation.

Expected Effects

This act could lead to improved living conditions for residents near airports who are affected by noise pollution. It also provides a mechanism for addressing situations where initial sound insulation efforts have failed or caused unintended damage. The pilot program is limited to four large hub airports, so the immediate impact will be geographically constrained.

Potential Benefits

  • Improved quality of life for residents near airports through noise reduction.
  • Addresses issues of deteriorated or ineffective sound insulation materials.
  • Potential for increased property values in affected areas.
  • Provides a framework for surveying and identifying properties in need of repair or replacement.
  • Encourages local airport operators to fund secondary noise mitigation efforts.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Limited scope, as the pilot program only applies to up to four large hub airports.
  • Potential for bureaucratic delays in implementing the program.
  • The program relies on local airport operators to establish funding mechanisms, which may vary in effectiveness.
  • Eligibility requirements may exclude some residents in need of assistance.
  • The program may create additional costs for airports and the FAA.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It authorizes Congress to allocate funds for projects that improve the quality of life for citizens affected by airport noise. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).