Assembly Resolution No. 1179
BY: M. of A. Giglio
MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April 13-20, 2026, as Dark Sky Week in the State of
New York
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to observe weeks
set aside that promote enhancing the lives of the citizenry of this
Great State of New York, particularly, those which serve to increase
interest in our planet and natural environment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 13-20, 2026, as Dark
Sky Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of
International Dark Sky Week; and
WHEREAS, International Dark Sky Week is marked every year during the
week of the new moon in April, this year it will be observed from April
13-20, and this designated week calls upon everyone to switch off their
lights in the evening and marvel at the infinite grandeur of the night
sky; and
WHEREAS, Light pollution, a human-made alteration of outdoor light
levels from those occurring naturally, is a major culprit behind the
limited visibility of stars in the night sky, hindering the ability to
observe the full beauty of the universe; and
WHEREAS, Artificial light at night has revolutionized the way we
live and work outdoors, but it has come at a price; when used
indiscriminately, outdoor lighting can disrupt wildlife, impact human
health, waste money and energy, and block our view of the universe; and
WHEREAS, The International Dark-Sky Association, the American
Astronomical Society, the Astronomical League, and Sky & Telescope
understood the importance of reducing light pollution and endorsing the
initiative started by Jennifer Barlow in 2003, which grew in popularity,
and is now an international week celebrated on the darkest week of April
during the week of the new moon; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body recognizes the importance of
preserving the beauty of the night sky and promoting environmental
sustainability; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body urges all New Yorkers to join in
observing Dark Sky Week and support efforts to reduce light pollution by
switching off non-essential outdoor lights to preserve the beauty of the
night sky for future generations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body, pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 13-20, 2026, as Dark
Sky Week in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.
