CT Senate Passes H.B. 6607, the “Lights Out CT” bill

H.B. 6607, the "Lights Out CT" bill, was unanimously voted out of the Senate on June 7, thanks to grassroots organizing and advocacy. This bill is a MAJOR step forward in protecting birds ~ and all of us ~ against light pollution. It will require all state-owned buildings in Connecticut to dim their nonessential outdoor lights after 11pm year-round, to protect birds and their habitats. It also directs the Code and Standards Committee to consider a change to the lighting requirements in the State Building Code.

Connecticut is now the fourth state in the nation, after New York, Illinois, and Minnesota, to have a comprehensive Lights Out bill to protect migratory birds from the harmful effects of light pollution.

“H.B. 6607 is a unique bill. It simultaneously addresses two of the biggest threats facing our natural environment today, biodiversity loss and climate change,” said Meredith Barges, Co-Chair of Lights Out CT. The state Office of Fiscal Analysis also estimates it will save the state of Connecticut at least $1.3 million per year.

“We're very fortunate to live in a state that values our natural resources, our birds, our health, and the night sky by taking steps to combat light pollution,” said Craig Repasz, Co-Chair of Lights Out Connecticut.

Passing H.B. 6607 was a combined effort of Lights Out Connecticut bringing together organizations across the state, including Audubon Connecticut, Connecticut Audubon Society, Connecticut Ornithological Association, CT Chapter of Dark Sky, New Haven Bird Club, Pollinator Pathway, and CT chapter of the Sierra Club Foundation, and many others. Too many to mention.

After a similar bill failed last year to get out of committee, it was reintroduced by Rep. Ann Hughes (D-135th) and then carried by the Environment Committee, with 10 of its members co-sponsoring the bill, including Rep. Aundre Bumgardner, Rep. David Michel, Sen. Saud Anwar, Rep. Laura Dancho, Rep. Patricia A. Dillon, Rep Joseph Gresco, Sen. Jan Hochadel, Sen. Ceci Maher, Rep. Mary M. Mushinsky, and Rep. Frank Smith. This bill passed both houses unanimously.

Now, the bill will go to Gov. Ned Lamont for signature.

“We're already thinking up fun ways to celebrate H.B. 6607 once it officially becomes law. Possibilities include a Firefly Festival or Summer Night Star Gazing Party in Lyme, where the Milky Way can still be glimpsed on a clear night,” said Barges.

Help celebrate this victory for the birds and the night sky! Make a donation today.