Federal bill would cap how bright car headlights can be

What does this do?

HR 7772 would require the federal government to establish a legal maximum brightness limit for low beam headlights on vehicles sold in the United States. The Department of Transportation would have one year to write and finalize the new rule, with brightness measured in lumens or a comparable unit.

Who does it affect?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would determine and enforce the specific brightness limit. Automakers, vehicle owners who use aftermarket headlight upgrades, and everyday drivers who share roads with bright-headlight vehicles would all be affected.

Why does it matter?

There is currently no federal cap on low beam headlight brightness, and complaints have grown that LED and other modern headlight technologies blind oncoming drivers. The bill's supporters contend this creates a safety hazard, particularly on two-lane highways with no barrier separating opposing traffic.

Where does it stand?