LIGHT Safety Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Perez, Marie Gluesenkamp [D-WA-3]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 4, 2026
Bottom line
This bill mandates federal regulation to cap the brightness of vehicle low beam headlamps to enhance road safety by mitigating glare for other drivers.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), to issue a final rule within one year. This rule will revise existing Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to establish a maximum allowable brightness standard for low beam headlamps on all motor vehicles, using lumens or another appropriate photometric measurement.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that excessively bright headlamps pose a significant safety hazard, causing glare that temporarily blinds oncoming drivers and pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents. They contend that current standards are insufficient to address the proliferation of brighter LED lights, and a federal maximum brightness standard is necessary to protect public safety and improve nighttime visibility for all road users.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that setting a maximum brightness could inadvertently compromise driver visibility in certain conditions, potentially increasing the risk of hitting obstacles or pedestrians in poorly lit areas. They may also raise concerns about stifling innovation in automotive lighting technology or imposing undue regulatory burdens on manufacturers, potentially increasing vehicle costs without clear evidence of widespread safety benefits outweighing potential drawbacks.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its core directive.
Section 2(a)
Mandate for Maximum Low Beam Headlamp Brightness Standard
This provision requires the Secretary of Transportation, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), to issue a new rule within one year of the bill's enactment. This rule must revise Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 108 to establish a maximum allowable brightness level for low beam headlamps on all motor vehicles. The brightness will be measured in lumens or another suitable photometric unit determined by the Secretary.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses a growing public safety concern regarding blindingly bright modern headlamps, which can cause temporary blindness and increase accident risk. They believe a clear federal standard is essential to ensure consistent safety across all vehicles and protect vulnerable road users.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that while glare is an issue, a blanket maximum brightness standard could limit manufacturers' ability to innovate in lighting technology, potentially hindering advancements that improve overall driver visibility and safety in other ways. They may also argue that existing regulations, if properly enforced, could address some glare issues without imposing new limits.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire to reduce hazardous glare for oncoming drivers with the need for adequate illumination for the driver of the vehicle, and the potential impact on automotive design and innovation.