H.R. 4383: Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act

This bill, titled the Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act, aims to establish pilot programs for repairing and replacing sound insulation in residential buildings near airports. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill entails:

Purpose of the Bill

The bill intends to assist residential properties that have received federal support for sound insulation treatments in the past, allowing them to improve or replace ineffective or damaged soundproofing materials due to various factors, including deterioration over time or inadequate original materials.

Key Components

• Pilot Programs: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required to create pilot programs at up to four major public-use airports. These programs are designed for local airport operators to implement local funding mechanisms aimed at addressing noise issues using non-aeronautical revenue.
• Waivers for Projects: The bill allows for one-time waivers from certain funding requirements for specific sound insulation repair and replacement projects that meet particular criteria.
• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for assistance, properties must:
  • Previously received Federal assistance for sound insulation treatment.
  • Fall within defined noise thresholds (65-75 decibels) based on current noise maps.
  • Demonstrate issues such as physical damage from previous treatments or degradation of low-quality insulation materials.

Requirements for Repair or Replacement

To receive funding for sound insulation repair or replacement, applicants must:

• Attempt to resolve issues through warranties, insurance, or legal remedies related to previously installed insulation.
• Show that the original insulation was installed before 2002.
• Have an evaluation by a qualified noise auditor confirming the need for repair or replacement due to structural issues not caused by the property owner's negligence.

Surveys for Effectiveness Assessment

The bill also grants the FAA the authority to conduct periodic surveys on properties that have undergone sound insulation repairs or replacements. These surveys are intended to assess the effectiveness of the insulation treatments and identify additional properties eligible for funding under this program.

Implementation Timeline

Within 120 days of the bill's enactment, the FAA must establish the pilot programs, setting into motion assistance for qualifying projects in noise-affected residential areas near airports.

Relevant Companies

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