Daylight Saving Ends: What’s the Status of Efforts to Stop Clock Changes?

As we reach the first Sunday in November, the U.S. is once again setting clocks back to standard time, trading later sunsets for earlier morning light. While some Americans adjust to this shift, many are questioning why we continue with bi-annual clock changes. If numerous lawmakers had their way, daylight saving time would stay in place year-round, eliminating the need to "fall back" each autumn.

Where Do States Stand on Permanent Daylight Saving Time?

Across the nation, states have been advocating for an end to seasonal time changes. Nearly all states have introduced, and some have even passed, proposals to remain on daylight saving time permanently. This shift would mean advancing clocks in March and keeping them there. However, without federal approval, states cannot unilaterally decide to remain on daylight saving time; they can only opt into permanent standard time, as Hawaii and most of Arizona have done.

Federal Push for Permanent Daylight Saving Time:

The issue isn’t just on the state level. In March 2023, Senator Marco Rubio reintroduced the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill aimed at keeping daylight saving time year-round. Although the measure has bipartisan support, it has yet to advance beyond the committee stage. Rubio and other proponents argue that ending the back-and-forth clock changes would reduce health risks and simplify life for Americans. While the support is there, Congress has yet to make the shift official.

Why Experts Prefer Permanent Standard Time:

Some experts believe permanent standard time is better for our health. Morning daylight helps regulate our circadian rhythms and suppress melatonin, which assists our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Experts suggest that a consistent morning light schedule may improve sleep, mood, and overall well-being, making standard time the preferred choice for long-term health benefits.

FAQs

1) Why does the U.S. observe daylight saving time?

Originally introduced in 1918, daylight saving time was designed to save energy by aligning waking hours with daylight.

2) Can states choose to observe daylight saving time permanently?

Not independently. States can only opt for permanent standard time, as federal law requires Congress to approve permanent daylight saving time.

3) What states observe permanent standard time?

Hawaii and the majority of Arizona stay on standard time throughout the entire year.

4) What is the Sunshine Protection Act?

Proposed by Senator Rubio, the Sunshine Protection Act aims to make daylight saving time permanent across the U.S.

5) What are the potential benefits of permanent daylight saving time?

Supporters claim it may reduce crime, increase happiness, and improve health by providing more daylight hours.

6) Why do some experts favor permanent standard time?

Morning light helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and reducing certain health risks.

7) Has the U.S. ever tried permanent daylight saving time before?

Yes, in the 1970s, the U.S. briefly tried it, but it was unpopular, especially among parents whose children went to school in the dark.

8) How does the time change affect health?

Studies link time changes to increased risks of heart attacks, car accidents, and other health issues around transition days.

9) When does daylight saving time start again?

Daylight saving time will begin again on the second Sunday of March.

10) What is the main argument against clock changes?

Many find clock changes disruptive to their health and daily routines, prompting calls to “lock the clock” either on daylight or standard time.