Bill > A05632

This bill, known as the "Dark Skies Protection Act," aims to regulate outdoor night lighting in New York to preserve and enhance the state's dark sky. Key provisions include: 1. Requiring all outdoor lighting fixtures to be shielded by January 1, 2026, with some exemptions for certain fixtures like those used for worker safety, emergency lighting, and cultural/historical significance. 2. Prohibiting the illumination of outdoor recreational facilities, amphitheaters, and arenas between 11 PM and 5 AM, except for facilities with events in progress prior to 11 PM. 3. Empowering the Department of Environmental Conservation to develop educational materials and provide information to help comply with the new requirements, which are intended to promote safety, conserve energy, and preserve the aesthetic qualities of the night sky. The bill also includes a preemption clause, allowing municipalities to adopt more stringent light pollution control measures if desired.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/A5632