Daylight Saving Time and the push to end clock changes

Daylight saving time moves clocks forward and increases evening daylight, prompting proposals to make the change permanent while public health groups and safety advocates oppose it. Congress has considered bills such as the Sunshine Protection Act, but federal law has not changed and the twice-yearly clock shifts remain in effect.

Daylight saving time begins this weekend when clocks move forward one hour. The change brings renewed public and political debate about whether to make daylight saving permanent or return to year-round standard time. Lawmakers, businesses, health groups and parents have taken differing positions. Federal law still requires the twice-yearly time changes, so any permanent shift would need action in Congress. Key facts: - The U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act in 2022, and related legislation has been reintroduced in subsequent congressional sessions. - Politicians including Florida Sen. Marco Rubio have voiced support for ending clock changes, and former President Donald Trump has called the practice inconvenient and costly. - As of 2023, 19 states had passed measures favoring year-round daylight saving time, but federal approval is required before states can make that change. - Supporters cite more evening light for retail activity, outdoor recreation and reductions in seasonal depression, while some studies question net energy savings and note more evening driving could offset household lighting reductions. - Health organizations such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommend year-round standard time to align with human circadian biology, and research in the Journal of Affective Disorders has linked reduced sunlight hours to increased mental health distress. Summary: The debate involves trade-offs among public health, safety, energy use and commerce, and it has produced competing proposals at the state and federal level. Lawmakers and interest groups remain divided and federal action has stalled, so the twice-yearly clock change continues. Undetermined at this time.