US House Passes Sunshine Protection Act to End Clock Changes
The US House of Representatives voted on Tuesday to make daylight saving time permanent by passing the Sunshine Protection Act.
The bill was approved with a 308-117 bipartisan vote, aiming to eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes for Americans. If enacted, the US would remain on the time currently observed from March to November, referred to as permanent daylight saving time.
During the final vote count, Republican Scott DesJarlais played a clip of The Beatles' "Here Comes the Sun" on his phone.
Bipartisan Support and Legislative Progress
The issue of ending clock changes has gained bipartisan momentum over several years. Former President Donald Trump had pledged to end the biannual clock adjustments upon his return to the White House.
Republican Representative Vern Buchanan of Florida, who introduced the bill in January 2025, stated on Tuesday that the clock changes disrupt schedules "for no good reason."
"Clock changes disrupt schedules for no good reason."
Following the House's passage, the Senate may soon consider its version of the bill. Florida Republican Rick Scott introduced an identical Sunshine Protection Act in January 2025.
History and Current Practice of Daylight Saving Time in the US
Since World War One, the US has advanced clocks during summer months to extend daylight in the afternoon and conserve electricity. This practice is known as Daylight Saving Time (DST). Each autumn, clocks are set back to standard time.
DST was initially introduced to conserve fuel during World War One but was unpopular with farmers and repealed after the war. It was reinstated during World War Two, and in 1966, legislation standardized clock changes nationwide. However, some states such as Hawaii and Arizona, along with US territories including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, have opted out of DST.
Trump's Support and Criticism of Permanent DST
In a May social media post, Trump expressed his commitment to passing legislation on time changes.
"I'm going to work very hard to see a law on time changes passed. It's time that people can stop worrying about the 'Clock,' not to mention all of the work and money that is spent on this ridiculous, twice yearly production. It will also be a very nice WIN for the Republican Party. Take it!"
Critics of permanent DST highlight concerns about darker winter mornings, which could increase hazards for early morning drivers.
Supporters of standard time emphasize health benefits from increased morning light, such as improved sleep cycles.
Global Context of Daylight Saving Time
Approximately one third of the world's countries observe some form of daylight saving time, with most located in Europe, according to the Pew Research Center.
In Europe, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Iceland, Russia, and Turkey do not observe DST. In Africa, Egypt is the only country practicing daylight saving time.
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