Loud cars in Michigan would see increased fines under proposed law

LANSING, Mich. (WILX/WNEM/WLUC) - When you think Michigan, you think of the Automotive Capital of the World; when you think about the Automotive Capital, you think about souped-up cars with loud engines. However, some lawmakers are looking to make some noise, by quieting loud cars.

HB 5696 cracks down on vehicles intentionally modified to create excessive noise by increasing fines for those who alter a vehicle’s exhaust system and the drivers of those vehicles. The bill sponsor, Rep. Natalie Price (D), Berkley, said loud vehicles are an issue from when it first gets warm to the first frost.

“These modified exhaust systems with excessive noise are really harming folks that live in the community,” Rep. Price explained.

Under current Michigan law, local ordinance only cover local roads. This law would expand the restrictions to all roads throughout the state to ensure law enforcement has the authority to stop vehicles for excessive noise.

The decibel restrictions for vehicles in Michigan vary depending on cars and motorcycles. A car can not exceed 90 decibels (dB) when driving over 35 miles-per-hour, or 86dB for motorcycles. 90dB is about how loud a lawn mower or a hair dryer is. A study published in the National Library of Medicine says constant sound at 90dB creates significant hearing impairment in most people.

“I think there’s a great way to come out and [show] appreciation for car culture without modifying your vehicle so that the noise is louder than the vehicles are designed,” Rep. Price said.

Rep. Price cited a Harvard Medicine study that says noise pollution is linked to increased stress and lack of sleep and can lead to cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, type 2 diabetes, and memory issues.

“This is the number one thing I hear from constituents in Berkley, Royal Oak, Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. The noise on Woodward is harming their health,” Rep. Price said.

First time offenders and those with cars in disrepair do get some grace under the proposed legislation. If the driver can show the vehicle is up to code before their ticketed court date the fine would be waived.

The bill was referred to the House Transportation Committee.

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