MMA "Motorcycle Sound Emissions Bill" for the
2013-2014 Legislative Session
Massachusetts has two different laws on the books that address Motorcycle Sound Emissions.
One of the laws (MGL Chapter 90, Section 16) is completely subjective and allows Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) much leeway when determining how loud is too loud and that a citation is warranted. Usually the Officer states something like, "I can tell its' too loud!" as the basis of their argument.
The second law (MGL Chapter 90, Sections 7S, 7T, and 7U) is completely objective and requires a series of controlled tests, done in a controlled area, with properly calibrated sound equipment. This law eliminates LEO interpretation and relies on measurable limits.
House Bill Number 3039 filed by Representative Angelo D'Emilia and Senator Robert Hedlund on behalf of the MMA is supported by 10 Formal Co-Sponsors and seeks to eliminate LEO usage of the subjective 90-16 in favor of the controlled 90-7S, 7T, & 7U.
All riders who receive Motorcycle Sound Citations based on 90-16 are urged to contact the MMA immediately with the details. The MMA has been very successful in defending its' members in Court for these citations. Contact: LegislativeDirector@MassMotorcycle.org
MMA Motorcycle Sound Emissions Bill Text (as filed) for the
2013-2014 Legislative Session
An Act relative to the clarification for the definition, testing regulations, and enforcement of motorcycle sound emissions
Section 16 of chapter 90, as appearing in the 1998 Official Edition and amended September 1, 2007, is hereby amended following the sentence ending with:
(2) with an exhaust system which has been modified in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the exhaust by appending the new sentence/clause:
In determining if a motorcycle is in compliance, the definitions, testing regulations, and maximum sound levels as defined in Chapter 90, Sections 7T, 7S, and 7U, will be applied.
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