EgoEase - On a spring day in Augusta, Maine took a bold step toward tranquility. Governor Janet Mills put pen to paper, signing LD 1172 into law and creating a nightly “Quiet Hour” from 9 to 10 p.m. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a mandate, designed to give residents a guaranteed window of peace each evening. The law comes as part of a broader push to address noise pollution, an often-overlooked public health concern gaining attention across the U.S. in 2025.
Under the new law, noise levels in residential zones must not exceed 45 decibels during the designated hour—roughly the volume of a quiet conversation. Downtown areas face a slightly higher cap of 60 decibels, akin to background noise in a busy office. These limits aren’t arbitrary; they’re crafted to minimize disruption and promote rest. Violators face fines starting at $150, a penalty meant to ensure compliance from both individuals and businesses
What prompted this unusual law? Lawmakers pointed to a compelling University of Maine study that ties chronic noise exposure to serious health risks. The research found that persistent loud environments can trigger cortisol spikes—stress hormone surges that wear on the body over time. Even more striking, the study linked noise to what it calls “ego-inflated aggression,” suggesting that constant clamor can fray tempers and fuel conflict. This evidence was a key motivator for passing LD 1172.
Ensuring silence isn’t just a hope—it’s a funded priority. Maine state police will deploy mobile sound meters to monitor decibel levels during the Quiet Hour, giving officers the tools to measure and enforce compliance on the spot. To support this rollout, the state has allocated $920,000 for the first year of enforcement, drawn from a lottery surplus. This financial backing signals a serious commitment to making the law stick, though it remains to be seen how effectively these resources will be used.