LA County Backs Bill To Limit Helicopter Traffic Over Residential Areas
LOS ANGELES (CBS) — A congressional bill to regulate helicopter traffic over Los Angeles received a key endorsement on Tuesday from county officials.
KNX 1070's Ed Mertz reports the Board of Supervisors gave its support to what's known as the "Los Angeles Residential Helicopter Noise Relief Act".
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Rep. Howard Berman (D-San Fernando) introduced the act in Congress after residents in the San Fernando Valley complained about helicopters hovering overhead during events such as "Carmageddon", the latest celebrity scandal or even high-speed traffic chases.
"With such a large number of helicopters jockeying for a limited amount of airspace, it's only a matter of time before we have a serious accident or worst," Berman told the House Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee back in October.
And while there is generally strong support from the public, not everyone supports the legislation.
"You are placing more nonsense restrictions and adding more stupid and cumbersome regulations," one critic said.
The bill will likely face heavy scrutiny in a highly-politicized House and Senate as lawmakers look ahead to a tough election next fall.
If passed into law, the Federal Aviation Administration would have one year to establish rules on flight paths and minimum altitudes for helicopters.
» RELATED LINK: Valley Congressman Tries To Limit Helicopter Noise With Bill
