Congressman Adam Smith Applauds Passage of Sound Insulation Repair Program to Protect Airport-Adjacent Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash) celebrates the passage of the Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act, legislation to help families living near major airports repair or replace failing sound insulation systems.
 
For decades, federal sound insulation programs have reduced aircraft noise for nearby homes, but current rules generally prevent the Federal Aviation Administration from funding repairs when earlier insulation has deteriorated or failed.
 
This legislation creates a limited FAA pilot program allowing select large hub airports to repair or replace previously installed insulation, with strict eligibility and independent verification requirements to ensure the program remains narrowly focused.
 
“This legislation fixes a clear gap in federal policy that has left families dealing with failing sound insulation and no path forward,” said Representative Adam Smith. “It creates a targeted solution that helps protect public health and quality of life while supporting the continued operation of our aviation system.”
 
Statements of support:
“The Port wants to share our deepest gratitude to Representative Smith and Senator Murray for their multi-year leadership to get this important legislation passed into law. This provision will allow us to leverage our existing $5 million Port Levy Fund investment in our Sound Insulation Repair and Replacement Pilot Program to identify and fix an increased number of homes that are no longer receiving the expected noise protection. This is a win for the community, and the result of joint advocacy by the Port and the near-airport cities through the SEA Stakeholder Advisory Round Table (StART).” – Port of Seattle Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa.
 
“SeaTac proudly connects Washington to the world, and we believe that connectivity must be paired with practical protections for nearby neighborhoods. This proposal advances a focused, homeowner-centered approach to repairing or replacing aging sound insulation where it is no longer performing as intended.” – Mayor Mohamed Egal, City of SeaTac
 
“Senator Murray & Representative Smith saw our community's needs and we thank them for getting this legislation passed. This will help improve the quality of life for some Des Moines residents who are most impacted by living under SeaTac's flight paths. Passing this legislation is a real step forward." – Mayor Traci Buxton, City of Des Moines
 

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