Quiet Cars Legislation

On April 9, 2008, Representatives Towns and Stearns introduced the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2008. The legislation (H.R. 5734) mandates a rulemaking to “establish a method for alerting blind and other pedestrians of the presence and operation of nearby motor vehicles.” Per the proposed legislation, the rulemaking process would begin 90 days following publication of a study that is to be completed within two years of enactment. The study is to focus on identifying: 1) “practical means” of alerting at risk individuals to the presence of quiet running vehicles; 2) minimum sound levels; and 3) other methods to convey “information essential for pedestrian safety.” The legislation call for a final rule to be issued no later than 2 years after publication of the NPRM. The bill has been referred to the Committee on Commerce and Energy.