SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Porfirio sponsored a measure that will expand the Residential Sound Insulation Program Advisory Committee by two members. It was signed into law Friday, June 30.

“By adding more members to the committee, additional insight will be provided when making suggestions to municipalities,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “The goal is to ensure that affected areas have adequate representation.”

Currently, municipalities can establish Residential Sound Insulation Programs to mitigate the impacts of aircraft noise and pollution on neighboring homes by replacing residential windows and monitoring the off-gassing of those replacements. At least 10% of window replacements must go to homes that are considered in extreme hardship.

The committee is currently comprised of nine members who monitored the various municipal programs and had the authority to determine which homes contain windows or doors that cause offensive odors and are thus eligible for replacement. Porfirio’s measure will add two additional members to the board.

“The city of Chicago has sound insulated more than 21,000 homes near O’Hare and Midway airports,” said Porfirio. “With more feedback from additional members, a quieter environment and better quality of life can be achieved.”

The governor signed House Bill 3722 on Friday, June 30, which takes effect immediately.