Us Congress House Bill HB3921

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/7/23
• Refer: 6/7/23
• Refer: 6/8/23

Caption

Reduce Excessive Decibels and Unwanted Commotion and Emissions to Heighten Enforcement and Limitation of Intrusive Chopper Operations to Protect Towns and Enhance Residents from Noise Act of 2023

Impact

This legislation would amend existing provisions of Title 49 of the United States Code, specifically enhancing the responsibilities of helicopter operators regarding noise complaints. It mandates that operators submit complaint-related information to the Aircraft Noise Ombudsman within 48 hours of receiving a complaint. Furthermore, it requires the FAA to verify the information provided by individuals and entities registering helicopters, intending to streamline the process and improve compliance checks. Such provisions might result in improved responses to noise issues in residential areas affected by helicopter traffic.

Summary

House Bill 3921, titled the 'Reduce Excessive Decibels and Unwanted Commotion and Emissions to Heighten Enforcement and Limitation of Intrusive Chopper Operations to Protect Towns and Enhance Residents from Noise Act of 2023', primarily seeks to address the issue of helicopter noise complaints across the United States. The bill proposes the establishment of a comprehensive information sharing database to facilitate the reporting and management of helicopter noise complaints between operators and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This step is aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in noise management practices associated with helicopter operations.

Contention

Notably, the bill sets forth a mechanism for public submissions of noise complaints, expanding community engagement in aviation noise issues. However, there may be concerns surrounding privacy and the bureaucratic nature of submitting repeated complaints. Additionally, exemptions for military helicopters could raise questions about equity in regulations across all helicopter operations. Critics may argue that while the intention of the bill is commendable, its implementation might complicate operations for helicopter owners, particularly smaller operators who might struggle to comply with the increased regulatory burden.