NYC lawmaker wants to force Big Apple to go dark after 11 p.m. — and critics say it’s a criminal’s dream bill (only 4.83 years left)

NY Post ^ | 3/26/26 | Carl Campanile, Natalie O'Neill

[Libloather]

Critics say she’s not the brightest bulb!

A state lawmaker has a dim-witted plan that would force the Empire State Building and nearly all of New York City to go dark after 11 p.m. — but detractors say the plan would let criminals run wild under the cloak of night.

The “Dark Skies Protection Act,” sponsored by Manhattan Assemblywoman Deborah Glick, would require Big Apple businesses and residents to hit the off switch between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. to save energy, help migratory birds and avoid “light pollution,” according to the proposed bill.

The goal is to “preserve and enhance the state’s dark sky while promoting safety for people, birds and other wildlife, conserving energy and reducing our carbon footprint, and preserving the aesthetic qualities of the night sky,” the legislation declares.

“Our ancestors were able to experience a night sky full of stars, but now 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way and experience its profound beauty.”

The bill, which would go into effect in January 2028, notes that lights “used for travel and public safety would be exempt.”

But critics were quick to mock the lights-out bill as no bright idea — saying Gotham in a blackout amounts to a dream for crooks, thugs and gangsters.

[DeplorableTrumpSupporter]

The “Dark Skies Protection Act,” sponsored by Manhattan Assemblywoman Deborah Glick, would require Big Apple businesses and residents to hit the off switch between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. to save energy, help migratory birds and avoid “light pollution,” according to the proposed bill.

It should be the "Criminals Protection Act".

[Dilbert San Diego]

Long running extra inning night games at YANKEE stadium and CITI field will have to be suspended? Lights out at the ball park?

[VTenigma]

I guess she wants “The Purge” everyday.

[bobbo666]

So, making a hundred-foot tall building dark is gonna preserve/protect flying birds how? We are not talking about owls or bats here.

[hal ogen]

I just love how New York nitwits continue to entertain the rest of America.

LOL!

Off with their lights!!!

[1_Rain_Drop]

In the olden days, there were no lights in hallways. There was a cluster of light push buttons on the first floor. One had to press them to get light and hope one reaches their destination before the lights go out.

[1_Rain_Drop]

bars to close at 11pm?
not happening

[ridesthemiles]

I LIVED IN RURAL N CALIF FOR 12 YEARS.

NEIGHBOR FOUGHT FOR “DARK SKIES”

REFUSED TO HAVE EVEN MOTION SENSOR LIGHTS.

SOMEONE CLEANED OUT HUSBAND’S GARAGE OF THOUSANDS OF $$$$$$$$ OF TOOLS/ EQUIPMENT.

NOT MUCH SYMPATHY FROM THE REST OF US.