The bill amends Section 31-45-5 of the General Laws regarding noise limits for motor vehicles, specifically addressing the operation of radios, stereos, and audio systems in vehicles. It establishes that it is unlawful for any motor vehicle equipped with such sound systems to produce excessive noise. Local municipalities are granted the authority to create ordinances that enable law enforcement officers to impound sound-producing devices used in noise violations.

The bill mandates that, at the time of issuing a citation for a violation, law enforcement may impound any radio, electric sound amplification device, or other sound-producing device if the person charged with the violation is the owner of the device. The ordinance must provide for a post-impoundment hearing to be held within 14 days, during which the owner can assert a defense. Additionally, the ordinance may allow for the impoundment of a vehicle for up to five working days if the sound device cannot be easily removed from the vehicle at the site of the alleged violation.

Municipalities may recover costs associated with the impoundment of sound-producing devices and vehicles. Upon final disposition of the citation for the violation and payment of any fines and costs imposed, the sound-producing device shall be returned to its rightful owner. If unclaimed, impounded sound-producing devices or vehicles may be disposed of after a period of 90 days following the final disposition of the violation hearing. This act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
1148: 31-45-5