Noise Control Act

Noise Control Act is a federal law enacted by the United States Congress in 1972 to regulate noise pollution for the purpose of public health and safety. The Act established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the federal agency responsible for noise control.

Overview

The Noise Control Act was signed into law by President Richard Nixon on October 27, 1972. The Act was designed to promote an environment free from noise that jeopardizes health and welfare. The Act gave the EPA the authority to establish noise emission standards for products distributed in commerce.

Provisions

The Act contains several key provisions:

• The EPA is authorized to coordinate all federal noise control activities.
• The EPA is required to publish information on the levels of environmental noise necessary to protect public health and welfare.
• The EPA is authorized to establish and enforce noise emission standards for products distributed in commerce.
• The EPA is authorized to conduct research on noise and its effects.

Impact

The Noise Control Act has had a significant impact on noise pollution in the United States. The Act has led to the development of noise emission standards for a variety of products, including motor vehicles, construction equipment, and electrical appliances. These standards have helped to reduce noise pollution and protect public health and welfare.

Criticism

Despite its successes, the Noise Control Act has been criticized for its lack of enforcement. Some critics argue that the EPA has not done enough to enforce the noise emission standards established under the Act. Others argue that the Act does not go far enough in regulating noise pollution.

See also

• Clean Air Act
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Noise pollution
• Public health