TURN OFF THE LIGHTS ACT
Preamble:An act to reduce energy consumption and light pollution caused by public roadways, and to promote environmental conservation and energy efficiency.
Section 1: Purpose and ScopeThis act aims to conserve energy and reduce light pollution by mandating the automatic shutdown of street lights during off-peak hours, specifically from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
Section 2: DefinitionsFor the purpose of this act, the following definitions apply:
a) "Public roadway" refers to any road, street, or highway that is owned and maintained by the Republic of Atlasia or its local government units;
b) "Street light" refers to any artificial light that is installed along a public roadway to illuminate it;
c) "Off-peak hours" refers to the period from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am, during which the demand for street lighting is typically lower.
Section 3: Mandatory Shutdown of Street Lights During Off-Peak HoursAll street lights installed along public roadways shall be programmed to automatically turn off during off-peak hours, specifically from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. The shutdown shall be implemented in a gradual and controlled manner, so as not to cause sudden darkness that may pose risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Section 4: ExceptionsThe following are exempted from the mandatory shutdown of street lights:
a) Streets with high pedestrian or vehicular traffic that require illumination for safety reasons;
b) Streets that are designated as high-crime areas by the local government units;
c) Streets that are located in areas with insufficient ambient lighting, such as rural roads or mountainous areas;
d) Streets that are used for emergency purposes, such as hospital access roads or fire lanes.
Section 5: Penalties for Non-ComplianceAny government agency or local government unit that fails to comply with the provisions of this act shall be penalized in accordance with the Republic of Atlasia's environmental laws and regulations.
Section 6: EffectivityThis act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the date of enactment