House adopts HCR 1026 recognizing 'Lights Out' effort and the role of dark skies for migrating birds

The Oklahoma House adopted House Concurrent Resolution 1026, recognizing Earth Day and a 'Lights Out' conservation effort intended to reduce light pollution during peak migration periods. Representative Heffner explained that Oklahoma sits in the Central Flyway and that "millions of birds travel across our state, most of them flying at night," making temporary reductions in artificial lighting a conservation tool for migrating species.

He urged adoption of the resolution; a member requested unanimous consent that the resolution be adopted without objection, and the presiding officer announced that would be the order. Representative Heffner and others framed the measure as symbolic recognition to raise awareness of migration windows and encourage voluntary light-reduction practices.

Representative (interjecting) added: "When we turn the lights off, we do. We turn the stars back on," underlining the cultural and educational element of the conservation practice.

Next steps: HCR 1026 was adopted by unanimous consent in the floor proceeding captured in the transcript; the resolution is ceremonial and does not, by itself, create regulatory requirements.