Prohibits modification of mufflers and exhaust systems to produce audible sounds; increases penalties for violations.

This bill prohibits modifying motor vehicle mufflers or exhaust systems to make them louder than the original factory installation. It directly affects vehicle owners and mechanics who install or modify exhaust systems to amplify sound. The key change increases penalties for violations from a $25 fine under current law to a maximum $500 fine or 30 days in jail. The law requires exhaust systems to maintain the noise level of the original equipment, with no exceptions for aftermarket modifications. The bill is pending before the Assembly Transportation Committee and has not yet become law.