By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say would improve how public spaces are illuminated and would help protect public health and safety; reduce energy consumption; safeguard wildlife and ecosystems; and lower long-term costs for municipalities.

Provisions include requiring all new and replacement publicly funded outdoor lighting fixtures to meet industry standards and best practices for reducing light pollution and minimizing glare; directing the Department of Energy Resources to establish regulations governing the brightness, shielding and design of public outdoor lighting; establishing a cheaper electric rate for low-wattage street lamps which would help cities and towns trim their electric costs if they use the low-wattage lights; cutting down on extra light poles to ensure the number of streetlamps along a roadway matches the level needed for traffic and pedestrian safety; and exempting light fixtures related to safety or security needs, including lights related to aviation and nautical safety, and temporary emergency, repair and construction lighting.

“Light pollution poses real challenges for public health, public safety and environmental protection,” said sponsor Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “It can disrupt sleep, create dangerous glare for drivers and pedestrians, waste energy and interfere with wildlife and natural ecosystems. [The bill] is a commonsense measure that will help municipalities save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve public lighting by prioritizing warmer, properly shielded fixtures.”

“This legislation strikes a vital balance of reducing unnecessary light pollution, conserving energy, and protecting both wildlife and the night sky,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “By introducing a lower electric rate for streetlights, mandating fully shielded fixtures and setting a warmer color temperature, we’re helping cities and towns cut costs while improving public safety and environmental health. It’s a cost-effective, science-based step to ensure future lighting installations respect our dark skies—and to ensure future generations are able to experience the natural wonder of gazing up at our starry skies.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes