Summary: Although some Federal actions have been significant in addressing the noise pollution problem, especially within the last year, implementation of a unified, national effort to control noise has been slow and, in some cases, ineffective. Recent significant advances include the issuance of a national noise strategy, increased emphasis on providing assistance to State and local noise programs, improved coordination, and initiation of a product labeling program. Serious problems which hinder the success of a national effort to control noise pollution include: budget constraints at the Federal, State, and local levels; lack of sufficient research to determine the adverse effects of noise pollution; and the absence of a national public awareness program concerning the harmful effects of noise. There is also a need for more effective action to enforce existing noise regulations. Interviews with officials in State and local noise programs indicated that the most severe and constant noise problems are noise from motorcycles, automobiles, and trucks and that the greatest need is for technical assistance in the form of training programs for local noise program personnel on the use of noise monitoring equipment and the development of effective noise ordinances. In addition, a national public awareness program would generate interest in noise pollution and encourage a continuing noise control effort at the State and local level.
