H.R. 3804 — Space Launch Noise Mitigation Study Act

This section states the sense of Congress that (1) the commercial space launch industry is a fundamental part of U.S. national security and contributes greatly to assured access to space; (2) U.S. national security benefits from a competitive and diverse launch industry; (3) space services are critical to sectors including transportation, communication, agriculture, financial services, and others; and (4) increased launches from national security and commercial activities can disrupt nearby communities, as referenced in the House Armed Services Committee report accompanying H.R. 8070 (118th Congress).

This section directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in consultation with the commanders of Space Launch Delta 30 and Space Launch Delta 45, to complete not later than one year after enactment a study on the feasibility of a space launch noise mitigation grant program under which eligible communities could receive grants to install noise-mitigation technologies for covered facilities near Department of Defense space launch ranges. The study must include (1) an estimate of necessary funds, with breakdowns by covered facility type and counts per eligible community; (2) recommendations on the geographic eligibility range for communities; (3) recommendations on noise-mitigation techniques and technologies, with estimated costs; (4) recommendations for improved Space Force coordination with communities to reduce noise disturbances; and (5) recommendations for a community outreach program on space benefits. The study must consider specified noise metrics (e.g., C-weighted single-event noise of 100 dB or greater, A-weighted maximum sound level of 90 dB or greater, C-weighted day-night average sound level of 115 dB peak or greater, PK 15), sonic boom effects, vibration on structures, data from federal ranges with vertical launches in 2024 and later, and a literature review. The section defines "covered facility" as a non-federal hospital, daycare, school, senior citizen facility, or private residence built before January 1, 2026; "eligible community" as a local government unit negatively affected by Department of Defense space launch noise, as determined by the Secretary of the Air Force; "PK 15" as the peak noise level exceeded by 15% of Department of Defense space launches; and "space launch noise mitigation grant program" as described above.