Longtime state lawmaker Stephen Meeks has won approval for the Arkansas Nighttime Environment Protection Act, a piece of legislation he has been pursuing for his entire Capitol career. The bill aims to reduce light pollution in order to save money, protect health, and attract tourists to rural Arkansas for stargazing. Meeks’ previous attempts to pass similar legislation met resistance, but he was able to secure 60 votes in the House for his current bill, which includes limits on lighting fixtures installed by public entities with exceptions for certain areas. The bill will now move to the Senate side for further consideration before the legislative session adjourns on Wednesday. Meeks, who has served for 15 years, sees this as his last opportunity to address the issue of light pollution before leaving office. If successful, the Arkansas Nighttime Environment Protection Act could have a positive impact on the state’s environment and economy, making it a significant achievement in Meeks’ legislative career.
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