The Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act, introduced by Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09), would allow the FAA to waive a rule that currently prevents airports from using Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds to repair or replace sound insulation in the same home more than once. The bill addresses problems caused by faulty materials and poor installation during noise mitigation programs in the 1980s and 1990s, which have led to structural damage and mold in some homes near airports like Sea-Tac. Eligible homeowners must have their issues verified by an FAA-compliant noise auditor, and repairs are generally limited to residences still within the airport's current 65 DNL noise contour.Open full document
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A legislative fact sheet from Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09) describing the Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act, which would allow the FAA to waive regulations barring airports from using Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds on the same home or structure twice. The bill addresses problems arising from defective or faulty sound insulation installed in homes near airports in the 1980s and 1990s. The legislation includes guardrails such as limiting eligibility to residences within the 65 DNL contour and requiring verification by an FAA-compliant noise auditor.