Vermont Introduces SEMA-Model Exhaust Noise Legislation

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• H. 854 implements the Society of Automotive Engineers’ objective testing procedures for determining if a vehicle’s exhaust system has been modified in excess of 95 decibels.  
   
• H. 854 allows exhaust noise violations to be dismissed if it is found that the operator of the vehicle had reasonable grounds to believe the vehicle was not operating with exhaust noise in excess of 95 decibels.
   
• H. 854 clarifies that exhaust systems may be modified with aftermarket parts if they emit less than 95 decibels as tested by SAE standards. 
   
• H. 854 represents a real effort by legislators and hobbyists to enact reasonable legislation.  
   
• H. 854 recognizes that aftermarket exhaust systems offer increased performance, which can make a vehicle safer by improving its ability to merge, pass, travel uphill, etc.
   

Overview: SEMA-model legislation (H. 854) has been introduced in Vermont to create a fair testing procedure for vehicle owners accused of exhaust noise violations. The bill implements the SAE standards for testing of exhaust noise levels. A vehicle cannot be in violation of the 95-decibel exhaust noise limit unless it has been tested under these fair standards. The bill currently awaits consideration in the House Transportation Committee.