S.Amdt. 2939

SA 2939, submitted by Mrs. Murray, aims to add a Pilot Program for Sound Insulation Repair and Replacement to the bill.

The purpose of this amendment is to allow the Federal Aviation Administration Administrator to establish a pilot program at up to 4 large hub public-use airports. This program provides a one-time waiver to allow local airport operators to receive Federal assistance for the repair and replacement of sound insulation in residential buildings that previously received Federal assistance.

• Requirements for the waiver: The Secretary must determine the assistance is justified because the residence has sound insulation or proofing material installed under the subchapter that is eligible.
• Residence criteria: The home must fall within specific noise contours (DNL 65 to 75 dB) and current interior noise levels must exceed DNL 45 dB, with the new insulation able to achieve a 5 dB noise reduction.
• Condition of insulation: A qualified noise auditor must determine that the previous insulation caused physical damage or that the materials were low quality and no longer function.
• Eligibility checks: Applicants must show they tried to use warranties, insurance, or legal remedies first, and verify the original insulation was installed before 2002. The structural deterioration must not be caused by the property owner's failure to maintain the building or through negligence.
• Cost calculation: The allowable project cost for these projects will be calculated without considering costs the Government previously paid.
• Surveys: The Secretary will consider allowing costs for airports to conduct periodic surveys of properties to see if they are eligible for these funds, provided the property owner is interested.