It is the most stringent law in the country.
Exhaust note nerds in New York, beware! There’s a possibility that you could face a heavy fine. A new law by Kathy Hochul in New York could result in a $1,000 fine for owners of cars that emit excessively loud exhausts. This is the most severe fine in the country, and it’s part of an effort to reduce illegal racing in New York State.
The new exhaust penalty is part of New York’s new SLEEP law. This bill raised fines for loud exhausts from $150 to $1,000. It may be a catchy acronym, but what does this mean for loud car owners?
This new law is designed to reduce illegal drag racing. According to the New York government, illegal drag racing increased during the COVID-19 epidemic so this law is an attempt to curb this trend. Anyone caught racing drag will be subject to a heavy fine, as well as a penalty for recklessly racing on public roads.
Local neighbors won’t be pleased if your loud car becomes a nuisance and will support any law that makes it more quiet. Any shop found installing illegal mufflers can be removed from the market. The state has the power to revoke a shop’s operating license.
For those who love to modify their cars, this harsh attitude towards loud exhausts is not a welcome one. For those who prefer straightpiping their Honda Civic and taking to the streets for a friendly drag race, it seems that a more conservative approach will be required.