WA House passes Connors’ light pollution bill
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
OLYMPIA – The Washington House of Representatives passed the light pollution mitigation bill introduced by Rep. April Connors (R-Kennewick) by a vote of 94-1 Monday. House Bill 1173 would require the warning lights on wind turbines to turn on automatically only when needed by aircraft.
Connors said while the lights serve as an important safety function, they are also an eyesore for local residents and cause light pollution. Under Connors’ proposal, existing wind turbines would have until January 1, 2027, to comply with the new requirement.
“I greatly appreciate the bipartisan, near-unanimous support for this measure,” Connors said. “This bill is about preserving the beauty of our night sky.”
The bill now heads to the Washington State Senate for further consideration.
