THE NOISE CONTROL ACT: LEGISLATIVE AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROBLEMS OF IMPLEMENTATION

Congressional intent behind the noise control Act of 1972 is examined. the Act authorized EPA to regulate the noise characteristics of new products, motor carriers, and railroads, and left states in control of overall noise levels. To determine whether congress provided workable standards for regulating products and whether EPA has successfully implemented those standards, noise control experiences with old and new trucks are examined. Findings suggest that the cost/technology and health/welfare standards set by congress are ineffective. EPA implementation has failed primarily because congress did not provide civil penalties as part of EPA's enforcement authority. A revision to the Act to remedy these shortcomings is suggested. (1 graph, numerous references)