Legislation setting a minimum sound level for vehicles sold in the United States by as early as 2010 is expected to be introduced today in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The bill would require the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to lead a study to determine if a minimum sound level is needed to protect pedestrians, specifically the blind. And if such a level is necessary, the bill would set it.

U.S. Reps. Edolphus Towns, D-N.Y., and Cliff Stearns, R-Fla., are sponsors of the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2008. The proposed legislation stemmed from concern that blind pedestrians may be put in danger because of quiet-running hybrid and electric vehicles.

"The beneficial trend toward more environmentally friendly vehicles has had the unintended effect of placing the blind and other pedestrians in danger," Towns said in a statement. "As someone who taught travel with a white cane to the blind for many years, I understand that the sound of traffic is critically important in order for them to travel safely and independently."

In March, a similar bill was passed by the Maryland Senate and House.

Like the Maryland measure, the U.S. House bill would seek input from organizations representing the blind, other pedestrians and the auto industry.

"This bill will prevent many injuries and fatalities while still allowing more clean vehicles on our nation's roads," Towns said.

The bill gives automakers two years to comply with the requirements.

Separately in November 2007, the auto industry's engineering trade group SAE International set up a subcommittee task force to study the issue. The group expects to issue findings by year end.

An SAE statement says: "Even though the subcommittee's initial focus is only on hybrid vehicles, any data collected or generated in understanding the issues could eventually include other vehicle types besides hybrids."