Legislature nears adjournment, take action now!
Posted by: selene on 06/16/2008 02:04 PM
Updated by: selene on 06/16/2008 02:04 PM
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Expires: 01/01/2013 12:00 AM
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The New York State light pollution bill, A7438/S4364, is in the process of being amended. Your help is urgently needed to finally get this legislation passed!
The principal change being made is removal of the section on light trespass. While trespass remains an important issue, we've concluded that it may be best handled at the local level for the time being. Much of the past opposition to the bill arose from this section, so its removal should significantly enhance chances for passage.
Opposition by New York City's Department of Transportation has been the other big stumbling block, but CDOT has finally accepted evidence that fully shielded fixtures can match the performance of drop-lens cobraheads they currently use. Nevertheless, NYC has issued another Memorandum in Opposition. CDOT is basically resistant to regulation of any sort, but since they can't really say that, the memo is a hodgepodge of misrepresentations and red herrings.
This legislation has passed the Assembly every year since 2000. While we shouldn't be taking anything for granted, we are anticipating passage again this year. Still, it would certainly be a good idea if you would remind your Assembly Member of your support.
Getting through the Senate will be more difficult, and we are therefore asking that you plan to call your NYS Senator immediately (today, not tomorrow!). Phone numbers are available by clicking here.
For best effect, call Albany rather than the local District Office.
Tell whoever answers the phone that you are calling to support S4364; give a couple of reasons if the person doesn't sound too harried. Your senator has most likely received a copy of the NYC opposition memo. In addition, s/he should have received a letter from SELENE pointing out the many flaws in the City's memo. Please indicate that you are specifically requesting that the senator contact the office of Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno to communicate (a) general support for the bill and (b) the fact that (as explained in the SELENE letter) the NYC memo is not credible.
The Legislature will recess for the year on June 23th. So, please call today not tomorrow. A written or faxed letter is good too. But time is running out and we must not let this opportunity pass us by.
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