The bill S.66 amends Vermont's motor vehicle laws to address excessive noise from vehicles, specifically focusing on exhaust modifications and engine compression brakes. It introduces new regulations under 23 V.S.A. § 1221, which prohibits the operation of vehicles with certain types of mufflers and mandates that motorcycles manufactured after December 31, 1985, comply with specific federal noise standards. Additionally, it establishes that vehicles modified in violation of these provisions will not pass inspection. The bill also adds 23 V.S.A. § 1309, which requires motor trucks and truck tractors equipped with engine compression brake devices to have mufflers that prevent excessive noise, with exceptions for emergency use.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Department of Motor Vehicles to adopt amendments to the inspection rules by July 1, 2026, and to conduct a public outreach campaign regarding the new regulations. It also requires the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to submit a report by December 15, 2025, proposing limits on motor vehicle noise and enforcement procedures, drawing comparisons with laws in other New England states. The effective dates for the various sections of the bill are staggered, with some provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025, and others on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-1221, 23-1223
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 23-1221, 23-1223
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 23-1221