New York could go dark at night if bill passes through
NEW YORK (PIX11) — The bright lights shining in New York City’s night sky may be significantly dimmed in the not-too-distant future.
The “Dark Sky Protection Act” bill, proposed by current Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, would impose limits and regulations on outdoor night lighting throughout the state.
“Dark Sky Law” (S5007) is a bill to amend environmental protection law to “strengthen the state’s dark skies” and control light pollution in New York with time limits from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
“Our ancestors were able to experience a night sky full of stars,” the bill states. “Along the northeast coast, the Milky Way is no longer visible from Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Exposure to excessive artificial light can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm, causing changes in brain wave patterns, hormone production, cell regulation, and other biological activities.”
How would New York be plunged into darkness?
By January 1, 2028, all outdoor lighting fixtures, both permanent and portable, in residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal buildings and structures will be required to be shielded.
“Shielded” means directing light rays downward rather than blasting them in all directions.
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Who is exempt?
Outdoor recreational facilities (ball fields, fields, amphitheatres, arenas or similar facilities) will be exempt if the event continues before 23:00
Lighting systems at airports or other necessary aircraft safety lights will also be exempt. Outdoor lighting for construction or worker safety in agricultural facilities, industry, production or commercial areas will also be exempt.
The exemption also applies to emergency lighting used by police, firefighters, corrections officers or medical personnel, as well as lighting used for tunnels and highway underpasses.
The bill is currently in Senate Committee.
Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has been covering New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work Here.
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