The bill amends Section 31-45-5 of the General Laws regarding noise limits for motor vehicles, specifically addressing the regulation of sound produced by radios, stereos, and audio systems in vehicles. It establishes that it is unlawful for any motor vehicle with a radio, stereo, or audio system to produce excessive noise. Local municipalities are granted the authority to enact ordinances that allow law enforcement officers to impound sound-producing devices used in noise violations at the time of citation issuance.

The bill outlines procedures for post-impoundment hearings, which must be initiated by a municipality attorney and held within fourteen (14) days of impoundment, during which any defense may be asserted. It allows for the impoundment of a vehicle for up to five (5) working days pending the resolution of the violation hearing if the sound-producing device cannot be easily removed at the site of the alleged violation.

The ordinance may also provide for the recovery of costs associated with the impoundment of sound-producing devices and vehicles. Upon final disposition of the citation and payment of any fines and costs, the sound-producing device must be returned to its rightful owner. Additionally, the municipality may dispose of any impounded sound-producing device or vehicle that remains unclaimed for ninety (90) days after the final disposition of the violation hearing. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
1148: 31-45-5