New Jersey Assembly Bill A1656

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Requires outdoor lighting fixtures installed or replaced by, or on behalf of State, or at projects receiving State funds, to meet certain criteria.

Impact

The bill's implications on state laws are significant as it seeks to reshape how state-funded projects manage exterior lighting. This includes mandates for energy-efficient measures, such as the integration of motion sensors in lighting fixtures and limiting the correlated color temperature to no more than 2,700 Kelvin. Furthermore, it prescribes that outdoor sports lighting must be turned off when not in use, contributing to energy conservation and promoting a healthier night environment. The bill is expected to influence environmental policies and state-funded projects significantly, leading to improvements in public health and the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Summary

Bill A1656, awaiting introduction in the 2026 session, aims to regulate outdoor lighting fixtures used by state agencies and projects that receive state funding. The primary objective of the bill is to reduce light pollution by enforcing specific criteria for outdoor lighting fixtures. This includes stipulations such as requiring fully shielded luminaires that minimize light emitted above a horizontal plane and limit overall light emissions to what is necessary for their intended purpose. The bill prescribes that these fixtures must meet or exceed standards set by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America and the Federal Highway Administration to avoid excessive luminance levels.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes exemptions for specific scenarios, such as temporary lighting for emergencies or nighttime work, which has stirred discussions about the balance between necessary illumination for safety and environmental conservation. Critics may argue that while the bill encourages sustainable practices, its stringent requirements could lead to challenges in meeting public safety needs without compromising ecological considerations. The efficacy of these lighting regulations in improving environmental conditions will likely be debated as the bill moves through legislative processes.