Remarks for Stanford Research Institute Conference April 17, 1973

Abstract

The Noise Control Act of 1972 establishes the first Federal regulatory program to control noise pollution in the U.S. It mandates a three-pronged approach dealing with new products (including motor vehicles), aircraft, and interstate rail and motor carriers. The key challenge now is proper implementation of the l!egislation by the Environmental Protection Agency. Although the EPA working agenda contains promising implementation plans, and the initial signs were encouraging, recent developments give cause for concern. Among these are indications of inadequacies in the new product noise criteria being developed, reliance on DOT and FAA personnel to evaluate the performance of their own agencies, and the Administration's hiring 'freeze', which hinders the expansion of the EPA's Office of Noise. Abatement to a size equal to the task ahead. These and other developments are interpreted in light of the provisions and intent of the Noise Control Act to form the basis of a 'score card' for the EPA.