Aviation Noise and Emissions Mitigation Act

The Aviation Noise and Emissions Mitigation Act establishes two distinct pilot grant programs administered by the Environmental Protection Agency to address the impacts of aircraft and airport operations. The first program, a 3-year initiative, will fund eligible entities to conduct sophisticated research and data collection on noise and emissions, including greenhouse gases and ultrafine particles, in communities near airports or air flight pathways. This research aims to trace specific sources of pollution, produce neighborhood-level data, and identify disproportionately impacted communities , with a focus on developing replicable monitoring programs and publicly disseminating findings. Following the research program, a second pilot grant program will provide funding for mitigation and support services. This program will prioritize applications that focus on communities identified as disproportionately impacted by aviation noise or emissions, particularly disadvantaged communities and those with higher rates of environmental exposure-related diseases. Eligible applicants include local community-based non-profit organizations, public health departments, and local or Indian Tribal governments, all requiring demonstrated community support and partnership. Funds from these mitigation grants can be used for various purposes, such as noise mitigation packages like weatherization and retrofitting for homes and schools, especially in low-income areas. They can also support programs promoting environmental and public health services, and provide healthcare interventions to address the health and quality of life impacts of airport noise and pollution, particularly for vulnerable populations. The EPA will provide annual reports to Congress detailing the program's activities and, after three years, will assess its effectiveness, potential for future efforts, and how to integrate aviation impacts into environmental justice mapping tools.