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K 440

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 21-28, 2025, as Dark Sky Week in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jodi Giglio

Urges Governor Hochul to proclaim April 21–28, 2025 as Dark Sky Week in New York to cut light pollution and boost astronomy education and public events.

ADOPTED
0
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Bill Summary · K 440

Summary: Bill K 440 — Memorializing Governor Hochul to proclaim April 21-28, 2025 as Dark Sky Week in New York

Overview

  • Bill Number: K 440
  • Title: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 21-28, 2025, as Dark Sky Week in the State of New York
  • Type: Resolution (memorial)
  • Status: ADOPTED
  • Introduced: May 5, 2025
  • Primary Sponsor: Jodi Giglio

Purpose and Intent

The bill requests that the Governor of New York proclaim April 21–28, 2025 as Dark Sky Week in the state. The overarching aim is to recognize and promote awareness of reducing light pollution, protecting dark skies, and encouraging astronomy education and public engagement with the night sky. As a memorial/resolution, the measure conveys the Legislature’s support for a gubernatorial proclamation rather than creating new law or program funding.

Key Provisions

  • Requested Action: The primary directive is for Governor Hochul to issue a proclamation designating April 21–28, 2025, as Dark Sky Week in New York.
  • Scope: The designation is intended to be statewide, encouragingnek events, observances, and educational efforts aligned with dark-sky principles.
  • Nature ofLegislation: Being a resolution, this bill does not authorize new state spending, create programs, or impose regulatory requirements. Its effect is to express sentiment of the Legislature and urge executive action.

Affected Parties and Impact

  • Affected Actors: New York residents, schools, universities, science and astronomy organizations, environmental and conservation groups, and local governments in New York.
  • Impact: If the Governor issues the proclamation, communities may host stargazing events, lighting-awareness campaigns, and educational activities that promote dark-sky-friendly practices. The measure also aligns with broader public-interest goals related to environmental stewardship and science education. The resolution itself does not mandate any new laws or funding.

Procedural History and Timeline

  • Introduced: May 5, 2025
  • Actions:
    • May 5, 2025 – Referred to Calendar (listed twice in the record)
    • May 6, 2025 – Adopted (listed twice in the record)
  • Current Status: Adopted by the Legislature, signaling formal support for the Governor’s proclamation of Dark Sky Week.

Notes and Context

  • The bill serves as a formal expression of the Legislature’s endorsement and is a non-binding action. Its practical effect depends on the Governor’s decision to issue the proclamation. The dates for Dark Sky Week (April 21–28) align with international and educational efforts to raise awareness about light pollution and the importance of preserving dark skies for astronomy and ecological health.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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