SRES-701-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2109; text: CR S2134-2135)
Sponsored by Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)
What it does
This resolution designates the week of April 20 through 26, 2026, as "National Dark Sky Week." It encourages federal agencies to coordinate on expanding dark sky opportunities, and encourages communities, educators, scientists, local governments, and individuals to raise awareness of light pollution and adopt responsible outdoor lighting practices. The resolution carries no legal mandates, appropriations, or enforcement mechanisms.
Who benefits
Astronomy enthusiasts and amateur stargazers who gain national recognition for their interest. Rural communities and tourism-dependent businesses near dark sky parks, observatories, and protected landscapes that may see increased visitor interest. Wildlife and ecosystems affected by artificial light disruption. STEM educators and students who may benefit from increased public interest in astronomy. Dark sky advocacy organizations such as the International Dark-Sky Association. Energy-conscious consumers and utilities, as the resolution highlights energy savings from reduced lighting.
Who is hurt
Commercial outdoor lighting manufacturers and installers whose products are implicitly associated with light pollution. Businesses that rely on bright exterior lighting for visibility or security, who may face increased public or local regulatory pressure following heightened awareness. No group faces direct legal or financial harm from this resolution, as it is purely advisory.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that light pollution has increased significantly in recent decades, disrupting wildlife behavior, obscuring the night sky for millions of Americans, and wasting energy — and that a nationally recognized awareness week costs nothing while drawing attention to simple, low-cost solutions like shielded and downward-directed lighting. They contend that dark sky tourism already generates measurable economic activity for rural communities near national parks and observatories, and that raising public awareness is a necessary first step toward voluntary and local action.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that a Senate resolution designating an awareness week is a symbolic gesture that consumes legislative time without addressing light pollution through any enforceable mechanism, funding, or policy change. They contend that if Congress genuinely views light pollution as a significant environmental and public health concern — affecting wildlife, energy consumption, and scientific research — a non-binding proclamation is an inadequate response that substitutes symbolism for substantive action.