NEWS ROOM
ITD News
USDOT News
Associated Press
News Link


Proposal would quiet mobile rock concerts

Delaware News Journal
DOVER, Del. – Delaware senators voted this week to mute so-called "boom cars" by approving a bill that would fine motorists with loud stereo systems. The bill by Senate Minority Leader John C. Still III was approved in the upper chamber on a 20-1 vote and now goes to the House.

If approved, people whose stereos can be heard or whose thumping bass can be felt up to 50 feet from their cars would face fines of up to $250 for a first offense and up to $500 for subsequent offenses.

Exempted from the bill are loudspeakers on commercial vehicles, such as ice cream trucks, or vehicles taking part in a parade.

Still, R-Dover North, said the bill was needed to augment similar local noise ordinances around the state and prevent what has become an increasing public nuisance.

Sen. Colin Bonini, R-Dover South, was the only no vote in the Senate. Bonini said he opposed the bill because lawmakers shouldn't try to regulate irritating behavior.

"Now we're saying we can arrest people for boorish behavior," Bonini said. "I think it sets a bad precedent."

Return to Transporter Main Page
The Transporter is updated on Fridays