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 is a commemorative resolution only — it does not create any law, regulation, program, or funding. It was passed by the Senate via unanimous consent.
Who benefits
Astronomy enthusiasts, amateur and professional astronomers, and dark sky advocacy organizations (such as the International Dark-Sky Association) who gain symbolic federal recognition for their cause. Educators who may use the designation to promote awareness of light pollution. Rural and remote communities whose economies depend on astrotourism may benefit from increased public attention.
Who is hurt
No group is directly harmed by this resolution. Commercial lighting manufacturers, outdoor advertising companies, and municipalities that rely on extensive artificial lighting face no legal or regulatory burden from this designation, as it carries no enforcement mechanism.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that light pollution affects more than 99% of the U.S. population, disrupts ecosystems and human circadian rhythms, and wastes an estimated $3 billion in energy annually, according to the International Dark-Sky Association. They contend that a national designation raises public awareness and encourages voluntary action — such as shielding outdoor lights — at no cost to taxpayers.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that commemorative resolutions consume limited congressional floor time without producing any measurable policy outcome, and that light pollution — if it warrants federal attention — should be addressed through binding legislation rather than symbolic gestures. They contend that repeated use of non-binding designations may substitute for substantive action on environmental issues that require regulatory solutions.