Bill > A01868

This bill amends the New York Public Health Law to add a new provision authorizing the Department of Health to engage in and support research on the health effects of artificial night light. Specifically, the bill empowers the department to conduct or fund research exploring potential links between nighttime light exposure and health risks, with a particular focus on investigating how artificial light at night might suppress melatonin production and potentially increase the risk of developing breast cancer. The research can be funded through state allocations as well as non-state public and private sources. This addition is part of a section that outlines various responsibilities of the Department of Health, which already includes research and programs related to disease prevention, medical assistance, and reporting on issues like veterans' suicide. The bill aims to expand the department's research capabilities by formally recognizing and supporting scientific investigation into the potential health impacts of artificial night light, reflecting growing scientific interest in how environmental light exposure might affect human health.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1868