K 440: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 21-28, 2025, as Dark Sky Week in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 440 BY: M. of A. Giglio MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 21-28, 2025, 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 21-28, 2025, 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 21-28, 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, contribute to climate change, 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 21-28, 2025, 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.