An Act to improve outdoor lighting, conserve energy, and increase dark-sky visibility
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to reduce energy waste and improve visibility of the night sky by regulating outdoor lighting in Massachusetts. It establishes standards for outdoor lighting fixtures to minimize light pollution and encourages the use of shielded fixtures that direct light downwards. The bill also promotes the use of lower-intensity lighting and encourages the replacement of outdated lighting with more efficient options. Ultimately, the goal is to balance public safety with the preservation of dark skies.
Key provisions
- Requires the use of shielded outdoor lighting fixtures.
- Promotes the use of lower-intensity lighting.
- Encourages the replacement of outdated lighting with energy-efficient options.
- Directs the Department of Energy to develop guidelines for outdoor lighting.
- Establishes a dark-sky awareness program.
- Allows municipalities to adopt stricter lighting standards.
- Requires lighting assessments for public spaces.
Who is affected
- Municipalities
- Property owners
- Residents of Massachusetts
- Businesses
- Lighting fixture manufacturers
Notable changes
- The bill mandates the use of shielded lighting to prevent light trespass.
- It encourages a shift towards more energy-efficient lighting technologies.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
6 on record
Cosponsors
Cynthia Stone Creem
James B. Eldridge
Joanne M. Comerford
Arguments
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