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Bill

HB 1579

RELATING TO LIGHT POLLUTION.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 14 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill HB 1579 regulates artificial lighting to reduce light pollution's impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and night sky visibility while progressing through committee review.

Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 751-26) as amended in HD 2, recommending referral to FIN.
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Bill Summary · HB 1579

Legislative bill overview

HB 1579 addresses light pollution in Hawaii by establishing regulations or standards to limit excessive artificial lighting. The bill recently passed its first committee review with amendments recommended by the Water, Agriculture, and Land (WAL) committee. The measure is proceeding through the legislative process with referrals pending to the Judiciary and Finance committees.

Why is this important

Light pollution affects Hawaii's unique ecosystems, including impacts on native seabirds, sea turtles, and other wildlife that depend on natural light cycles. Additionally, excessive lighting impacts astronomical research at Hawaii's observatories and reduces visibility of the night sky, which has cultural significance and tourism value. This is also a public health concern, as light pollution disrupts circadian rhythms in humans and wildlife.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic burden on businesses and residents – Mandatory lighting modifications or replacements could impose costs on property owners, businesses, and municipalities, with questions about implementation timelines and compliance assistance
  • Scope and enforceability – Disagreement may arise over which lighting types are regulated (streetlights, residential, commercial, decorative), how violations are enforced, and what exemptions exist for public safety
  • Balancing safety and conservation – Tension between reducing light pollution and maintaining adequate lighting for public safety, security, and nighttime visibility in populated areas

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

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