Governor Signs Portantino Bill to Help Curb Noise Pollution

For Immediate Release: September 20, 2022

Contact: Lerna Shirinian, (818) 409-0400

Governor Signs Portantino Bill to Help Curb Noise Pollution

Sacramento, CA - Senate Bill 1079, a measure authored by State Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank) to help decrease noise pollution by using sound activated devices, was signed into law by Governor Newsom today.   Streets for All, a nonprofit organization that advocates for street safety, was the sponsor of the measure.

“Loud modified exhaust systems harm the health and wellbeing of those around them,” stated Senator Portantino.  “Although there are regulations in place for vehicles that contribute to harmful noise pollution, there is no universal procedure to monitor and enforce these restrictions.  It is a public health issue and SB 1079 offers a path forward in reducing noise pollution and improving the quality of life in our communities.  I thank Governor Newsom for signing this important public health bill.”

Noise pollution is an unwanted and disturbing sound that causes adverse reactions for neighbors and friends.  Loud noises in the street can disrupt walking or cycling and may even lead to hearing loss.  They also pose dangers to physical and cognitive health. Exposure to loud sounds has been shown to raise stress levels, including cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline increases.  Chronically high levels of these hormones can impact heart disease, hypertension, stroke, immune responses, and cognitive functioning.

SB 1079 requires the California Highway Patrol to evaluate the efficacy of sound-activated enforcement devices by researching devices from at least three different companies.  It also requires a report back to the Legislature before January 1, 2025, with findings and recommendations for further implementation of a sound deterrent and monitoring plan.

"Noise pollution is a public health hazard shown to increase risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and low birth weight, and poses cognitive development issues shown to impact the learning outcomes of children in classrooms," stated Marc Vukcevich, State Policy Advocate for Streets for All.   “Noise cameras, a technology which detects noise from illegally modified mufflers, is starting to be used in cities around the world like Paris, London, and New York.  It is time that we start looking at using this technology in California.  We thank Governor Newsom for signing SB 1079 and are grateful to Senator Portantino for his leadership on this issue."

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