001227 Draft talking points for Colo House Bill 01-0618 "Standards for Certain Outdoor Lighting Fixtures" What is this bill about? ------------------------ This bill specifies that state-funded lighting begin to utilize fixtures that direct the light more efficiently, but using "horizontal cutoff" shielding of lamps, with appropriate exceptions for special situations. What problems are solved with this bill? ---------------------------------------- Doing so addresses the following concerns and problems: 1. energy consumption -- properly directed lighting can save up to 50% in the cost of operation; 2. glare reduction -- badly aimed lighting can cause temporary blinding, especially in the older population; 3. improved safety and security -- poorly aimed light actually can produce unsafe conditions such as glare, deep shadows, etc. whereas improved lighting methods can provide superior light at lower cost in the long run; 4. light trespass -- unshielded lighting spills across property boundaries and can present an unwelcome intrusion if levels are high; 5. enjoyment of the night sky -- poorly aimed, unshielded lights contribute to "light pollution" that degrades our view of the sky; light pollution provides zero benefit at significant social and tourism costs; 6. establish requirements --an increasing number of Colorado cities and counties are beginning to write law addressing these issues, and will look to the State in the long run for resolution and guidance. Why is this bill necessary and deserves your support? ----------------------------------------------------- 1. Make better use of tax dollars that pay for lighting use by state-funded entities; 2. Incrementally improve safety and security; 3. Reduce light trespass and sky pollution; 4. Establish requirements. Who can I contact for further information? ------------------------------------------ Bill sponsor: Rep. Andrew Romanoff, andrew@andrewromanoff.com and/or caslco@aol.com Colorado Advocates for Smarter Lighting 17002 E. Prentice Dr. Centennial, CO 80015-2412 You might find the new JEFFERSON COUNTY lighting bill of interest: planning.co.jefferson.co.us/zsrr/develop-stands/lighting-draft.html as well as the in-force DOUGLAS COUNTY regs: http://www.douglas.co.us/planning/documents/zoningres/section30.htm The 1999 TEXAS LAW signed by George W. himself: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlo/billnbr.htm (& search for 1999 HB 916) City, County and State regs controlling lighting, NATIONALLY: http://www.skykeepers.org/ordguide.htm A recent composite of EARTH AT NIGHT from space (dmsp): http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/image/0011/earthlights_dmsp_big.jpg and how to contact your elected state reps here in Colorado: http://www.state.co.us/dleg.html News about growth and energy issues: www.denverpost.com Page 1 double headlines on growth and energy, check archives for 12/21/00.