Try to pump the primer button on the filter housing- bleed out until fuel comes out the bleeder- if it gets hard- the engine should start.
There should not be a connection between the fuel light and the engine not starting, unless it is out of fuel. It is possible that you have a problem with the ignition switch, as some have had to replace it.
Many people, including myself, have had the fuel light go on, and the gauge goes to empty when full, after adding a larger fuel tank, and never had a problem with the engine starting.