NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – A local group believes New Mexico's dark skies are one of the state's most treasured sights. That's why it is urging state leaders to do more to protect them from light pollution. The organization Dark Sky New Mexico wants to strengthen the Night Sky Protection Act created in 1999. They’re hoping to get a bill introduced in the upcoming legislative session. “Basically, what we're asking for is that moving forward all new lighting be shielded, and shielded means the light is directed downward,” said Jon Holtzman with Dark Sky New Mexico. Story continues below Larry Barker: Rail Runner rubbish: Taxpayer’s stuck with $8M price tag Trending: Lawyers: New Mexico man receives largest medical malpractice payout for botched penile injections News: APD gears up for holiday shopping season by debuting plan to fight retail crime Business: Intel in Rio Rancho receives $500M to expand facility The current act said certain lights on billboards are exempt, but their proposal would remove that exemption, and only lighting on roadway signs would be exempt. Sen. Greg Nibert (R-Roswell) said he supports some of Dark Sky New Mexico's provisions and he would support a version of the bill. “Some of their ideas are easily accomplished; some of the ideas are probably a little more controversial and a little more expensive to accomplish,” said Nibert. Dark Sky New Mexico said they would also let local municipalities enact their own ordinances for light pollution. According to the group, nationally, light pollution is increasing 10% each year. They said artificial light has negative impacts on wildlife. “We are seeing alterations in feeding, migratory, and reproductive behavior in wildlife," said Peter Lipscomb with Dark Sky New Mexico. There are currently nine dark sky places in New Mexico designated by the group, including the Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Chaco Canyon National Historic Park. “Many people in New Mexico have gone outside either where they live or not too far away from where they live. They can look up and they can see the Milky Way. What we don't realize is that is not common for a large population of the United States," said Holtzman.  The legislative session begins Jan. 21, 2025.