Several Michigan lawmakers are backing new legislation to quiet some of the state’s noisiest roads by cracking down on loud and illegal exhaust systems.
The bipartisan bill would give law enforcement broader authority to ticket drivers with modified or excessively loud exhaust systems and significantly increase fines for violations.
It was introduced after some of the bill’s sponsors State Reps. Jason Hoskins, Natalie Price, Carrie Rheingans, Sharon MacDonell and Matt Longjohn, received complaints from constituents about the issue.
Hoskins also added that this bill is similar to one Price filed previously.
Under current law, drivers cited for an illegal exhaust face a $100 fine.
The proposed legislation would raise the penalty to $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for a second offense.
The bill would also remove the requirement that officers measure the loudness of an exhaust system before issuing a citation.
State Rep. Jason Hoskins, one of the bill’s sponsors, said the goal is to deter modifications that amplify engine noise and disturb nearby residents.
“We worked with our friends and stakeholders in law enforcement, and they told us the law needs more teeth and the penalties right now just aren’t deterring people from making these modifications to their cars,” Hoskins said.
Hoskins acknowledged the proposed fines are steep but said the bill includes a provision that would allow first-time offenders to have their fines waived if they remove the illegal modification.
The proposal is drawing mixed reactions from drivers and residents.
Some argue that noise is simply part of urban life and that the bill goes too far.
“I don’t mind it,” Raya said. “I mean, it’s a city; if you live in a city, you’re going to hear the noise.”
Another opponent, Chauncey Price, said that while loud engines can be irritating, additional enforcement feels unnecessary.
“Leave people alone, let people live their life,” Price said. He added that he frequently hears loud vehicles at night near the freeway but doesn’t support harsher penalties for people who customize their cars.
Others support the effort.
“I find them kind of obnoxious, a little bit annoying when you’re a pedestrian sitting around,” said Nathan Cenovski, who described the modified exhausts as unnecessary and appearing attention-seeking.
Hoskins said he believes the bill would improve day-to-day life for many Michigan residents frustrated by persistent noise.
The legislation has been recommended to a committee and must still advance to a full vote in the state House.
No date has been set for when that vote might take place.