Bill: Lower Light Pollution in the State of Florida

A BILL TO LOWER LIGHT POLLUTION IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA


Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE

This act shall be known as the "Florida Light Pollution Reduction Act".


SECTION 2. PURPOSE

The purpose of this act is to reduce light pollution in the State of Florida and to create a more sustainable environment for the citizens of Florida.


SECTION 3. DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this act, the following definitions apply:

(a) "Light Pollution" means any adverse effect of artificial light, whether direct or indirect, including skyglow, glare, light trespass, or any nuisance caused by light.

(b) "Outdoor Lighting Fixture" means any lighting fixture installed or used outdoors or in an open area, including but not limited to poles, fixtures, or lamps.

(c) "Shielding" means the use of reflectors, lenses, or other devices to reduce glare, light trespass, or other adverse effects of outdoor lighting.


SECTION 4. REQUIREMENTS FOR OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES

(a) All new or replacement outdoor lighting fixtures installed in the State of Florida shall be fully shielded to minimize glare, light trespass, and light pollution.

(b) All outdoor lighting fixtures installed after the effective date of this act shall comply with the mandatory shielding requirements prescribed by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) or an equivalent standard.

(c) Outdoor lighting fixtures used for security, emergency lighting, or other special purposes may be exempt from the mandatory shielding requirements if such fixtures are properly located to minimize the adverse effects of outdoor lighting.


SECTION 5. ENFORCEMENT

(a) The Florida Department of Environmental Protection shall be responsible for the enforcement of this act. The Department shall develop and adopt rules to implement the requirements of this act.

(b) Any person, public or private entity who violates the provisions of this act shall be subject to a fine of not less than $250 for the first offense and not less than $500 for any subsequent offense.


SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE

This act shall take effect on January 1, 2025.


SECTION 7. SAVINGS CLAUSE

If any provision of this act, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the act which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this act are declared severable.


SECTION 8. APPROPRIATIONS

There shall be appropriated such funds as may be necessary for the implementation and enforcement of this act.


SECTION 9. CONCLUSION

This bill acknowledges the importance of dark skies in preserving the natural beauty of the State of Florida and reducing the negative effects of light pollution on the environment and public health. It aims to reduce light pollution by implementing mandatory shielding requirements for outdoor lighting fixtures, which will help conserve energy, protect nocturnal wildlife, and promote the general welfare of the citizens in the State of Florida.

Location: Sorrento, FL 32776, USA

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