Assemblyman William Colton (D – Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach, Dyker Heights) cosponsored Assembly bill A-471 to increase enforcement against motorists and repair shops that illegally modify mufflers and exhausts systems to make them excessively noisy for motor vehicles and motorcycles.

 “An increasing number of car and motorcycle aficionados are making modifications to the muffler and exhaust systems of vehicles, in order to increase the noise. I strongly supported this bill because the quality of life of people in our neighborhood, especially seniors, has been greatly affected by the loud booming noises at all hours of the day and night, produced by vehicles with altered muffler systems. This legislation was introduced in the State Senate by Senator Gounardes and in the State Assembly by Assemblyman Magnarelli. I believe that this bill will significantly help to reduce this problem,” Colton stated.

“This bill will amend subdivisions 31 and 32 of Vehicle Traffic Law 375 to make it illegal to manufacture, distribute, sell, or offer for sale a cut-out, bypass or similar device for the muffler or exhaust system of a motor vehicle, or, for compensation, equip or install a cut-out, bypass or similar device on the muffler or exhaust system of a motor vehicle. The fine for a violation would be up to $1000,” Colton continued.

“I am especially impressed that Governor Kathy Hochul, has traveled to Il Centro in our Brooklyn neighborhood to sign this bill which has passed the Assembly and the Senate. I praise and thank Gov. Hochul for showing that she is listening to important concerns of families all over the state and is visiting all parts of the state to help solve the problems being experienced,” Colton added.