H.862 is a bill introduced by Representative Burke of Brattleboro that aims to enhance sound control standards in nonresidential spaces within public buildings in Vermont. The bill mandates that the Division of Fire Safety amend the Vermont Fire and Building Safety Code by July 1, 2027, to establish minimum standards for indoor sound and reverberation control. Specifically, it requires that rooms and spaces, excluding dwelling units and utility rooms, have ceilings made of sound-absorbing materials with a noise reduction coefficient of at least 0.75, covering at least 50% of the available ceiling area. The bill also allows for the establishment of more stringent standards for specific interior spaces and includes provisions for limiting sound transmission through walls and floor-ceiling assemblies.

Additionally, the bill defines "available ceiling area" as any ceiling surface visible to an occupant, excluding structural components that cannot accommodate sound-absorbing materials. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026. This legislation reflects a commitment to improving public building environments by addressing sound control, thereby enhancing the overall experience for occupants.