Bill · S.Res. 701· Senate(119-SRES-701)
A resolution designating the week of April 20 through 26, 2026, as "National Dark Sky Week".
- Introduced
- 4/29/2026
- Last activity
- 4/29/2026 — 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
- Cosponsors
- - 2 - 1
- Introduced
- Officially Recorded
- Adopted by the Senate
A Senate resolution is the Senate speaking for itself: stating a position, honouring someone, or setting its own rules. Adopting it is the whole process. Once the Senate agrees to it, it is officially the Senate's word; it is not a law, so the House and the President have no part in it.
What this bill would do
This resolution designates the week of April 20 through 26, 2026, as "National Dark Sky Week." The measure highlights how dark skies impact cultural traditions, scientific discovery, and economic opportunities through tourism. It notes that artificial lighting can obscure the view of celestial bodies and disrupt wildlife ecosystems. To address this, the resolution suggests measures like shielding lights and directing them downward. Finally, it encourages various groups to adopt responsible lighting practices and raise awareness about preserving the night sky.
Yes· 3 of 11
Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?+5
The resolution aims to protect wildlife ecosystems and biological processes by reducing artificial light pollution.
Would people in rural areas be better off under this?+3
The bill notes that dark sky tourism provides economic opportunities for rural communities.
Does this invest in rural communities?+3
The bill highlights economic opportunities for rural communities through dark sky tourism.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Economic Opportunities: Dark sky tourism provides economic opportunities for communities located near parks, observatories, and open landscapes.
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Scientific and Educational Benefits: Preserving dark skies supports scientific discovery, astronomic research, and educational opportunities for students and communities.
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Inspiration for Students: Astronomy education and public stargazing programs can inspire interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
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Cost Savings: Reducing brightness at night can save energy, reduce consumption, and lower costs.
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Environmental Protection: Reducing artificial light can prevent the disruption of wildlife behavior and ecosystems, as many species rely on natural cycles of light and darkness.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- No specific negative impacts or burdens are mentioned in the text provided.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Rural Residents+3Good For Children+2Good For Students+2Good For Low Income Households+1
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Improves Environmental Protections+5Improves Rural Development+3
- Economy And Finance
- Increases Job Creation+3Improves Small Business Support+2
- Education And Technology
- Increases Scientific Research Funding+2Increases Public School Funding+1
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Poverty Reduction+1
- 4/29/2026
- Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
- Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2109; text: CR S2134-2135)
- 3 Cosponsors added.
- Bill introduced.
John CurtisRepublican · Utah
Mark KellyDemocrat · Arizona
Jacky RosenDemocrat · Nevada