Expressing support for designation of May 16, 2025, as the "National Day of Light".
H. Res. 425 is a House resolution introduced in the 119th Congress that expresses support for designating May 16, 2025 as a National Day of Light. The resolution frames light and optics/photonics as central to modern science, technology, medicine, communications, national security, and everyday life, and it highlights historical milestones such as chirped pulse amplification and the National Quantum Initiative. While it does not enact policy or authorize funding, the measure signals strong congressional backing for recognizing the importance of light-based science and encourages educational institutions to observe the day with appropriate activities. The sponsors are Rep. Morelle (and Rep. Mast), and the resolution was referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Key Points
- 1The resolution expresses support for designating May 16, 2025 as a National Day of Light, establishing a formal observance in the United States. It is a non-binding statement of sentiment, not a law or funding authorization.
- 2It emphasizes the vital role of light-based technologies (optics and photonics) across sectors such as energy, agriculture, manufacturing, telecommunications, national security, and health.
- 3It outlines how light has advanced medicine (e.g., imaging, laser surgery, cancer treatments) and communications (e.g., the internet), and it notes its importance in transportation safety and national defense.
- 4It connects the observance to broader policy and history, mentioning the United States’ leadership in light-based science, the National Quantum Initiative Act, and the 40-year milestone of chirped pulse amplification (CPA), a foundational laser technology.
- 5It calls on schools, community colleges, and universities to observe the day with appropriate activities, aiming to inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, and innovators.