Friday, June 13, 2025

Proposed Legislation Aims to Lift Ban on Dark Sky Preserves in UP

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In Upper Michigan, a new bill proposed by Democratic lawmakers aims to establish dark sky preserves to protect the region’s night skies for future generations, a move that has sparked controversy. Rep. Julie Brixie emphasized the importance of minimizing light pollution through regulations on outdoor lighting in designated areas, as seen in Lower Michigan’s six dark sky preserves. However, Republican Sen. Ed McBroom warned that such regulations could impede economic growth, particularly in industries like mining, suggesting that dark sky designations could be used to halt development. Brixie countered that potential dark sky locations are typically not suited for industrial activity. Currently, the bill is under review by the House Committee on Government Operations and must clear several legislative hurdles before reaching the governor’s desk.

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