Im on the fence re automatic lights.
From my scooter days til now, I always ride with my lights on. I drive with auto lights (not Volvo type which are on all the time).
I agree that there should be a choice in the matter, but at the same time I don't see what the fuss is about auto lights. IMO in most situations you are better off with lights than without...and for those specific times where it isn't desired, well that's where the choice bit comes in.
No, it isn't hard to turn lights on. But it is a 'luxury' I enjoy