Bill > H2978

This bill establishes a special commission composed of 13 members, appointed by various legislative and executive leaders, to study and recommend ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the "type II noise barrier implementation plan," which refers to the process of building noise barriers along highways to reduce sound pollution for nearby residents. The commission's primary goal is to expedite this program, lower state costs, and improve the quality of life for the public by examining how projects are prioritized, identifying problem areas on specific routes like 93 and 95, and exploring ways to secure additional funding, such as federal grants. The commission is authorized to hold hearings, gather expert and public testimony, and learn from similar initiatives in other states, with a deadline to report its findings and any proposed legislation to the state legislature by January 15, 2014, making its report publicly accessible online.