D.C. Council Tables Noise Bill
posted 6:36 am Wed February 20, 2008 - WASHINGTON
The D.C. Council has tabled a bill aimed at quieting street preachers on H Street Northeast after union activists said it would limit free speech.
The D.C. Council voted 7 to 5 to delay consideration of the noise control bill. The bill aims to restrict noncommercial public speech during the day to no greater than 70 decibels - or about as loud as someone could yell. The legislation was a response to complaints from some H Street residents about amplified speeches. The majority of council members agreed with unions that the bill infringes on free speech and should be revised.
Council member Tommy Wells is a proponent of the restriction. He says other cities limit daytime noise to 60 decibels or less.
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Information from: The Washington Post, http://www.washingtonpost.com
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