Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)
A resolution designating the week of April 20 through 26, 2026, as "National Dark Sky Week".
A Democratic resolution with 1 Republican cosponsor · See all 3 cosponsors
Last activity — Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2109; text: CR S2134-2135)
Adopted
The chamber formally agreed to it, and for a resolution that is the finish line: what it says is now officially the chamber's position, rule or tribute.
Nothing more is needed. A resolution is how a chamber speaks for itself or sets its own rules, so adopting it is what puts it into effect. It is not a law, so there is nothing for the President to sign.
Its path through Congress
- Introduced
- Officially Recorded
- Adopted by the Senate unanimous consent
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.
The Senate by unanimous consent (no one objected, so there was no vote): no senator's position on it was recorded.
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
- Scored +5
Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?
The resolution aims to protect wildlife ecosystems and biological processes by reducing artificial light pollution.
- Scored +3
Would people in rural areas be better off under this?
The bill notes that dark sky tourism provides economic opportunities for rural communities.
- Scored +3
Does this invest in rural communities?
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. Tap or hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Would people in rural areas be better off under this? — The bill notes that dark sky tourism provides economic opportunities for rural communities. Would children be better off under this? — The bill promotes astronomy education and STEM interest which benefits younger generations. Would students be better off under this? — The resolution highlights educational opportunities and inspiration for students through stargazing. Would households on low incomes be better off under this? — The bill mentions that reducing light can lower costs and reduce consumption.
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Does this better protect air, water and wildlife? — The resolution aims to protect wildlife ecosystems and biological processes by reducing artificial light pollution. Does this invest in rural communities? — The bill highlights economic opportunities for rural communities through dark sky tourism.
- Economy And Finance
- Is this likely to create jobs? — The bill notes that dark sky tourism provides economic opportunities for communities near parks and observatories. Does this make it easier to run a small business? — The resolution highlights economic opportunities through nature tourism for local communities.
- Education And Technology
- Does this put more money into scientific research? — The resolution states that preserving dark skies supports scientific discovery and astronomic research. Does this put more money into public schools? — The bill mentions that preserving dark skies supports educational opportunities and science interest for students.
- Social Issues And Justice
- Is this likely to lift people out of poverty? — The bill suggests that reducing brightness at night can lower costs through reduced energy consumption.
- 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