Legislation aiming to make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent has passed the House of Representatives but is encountering a significant roadblock in the Senate. The Sunshine Protection Act, intended to eliminate the biannual clock-changing ritual, has become a point of contention, dividing senators along geographic lines rather than party affiliation.
President Donald Trump has expressed support for making DST permanent, aiming to grant Americans a reprieve from the twice-yearly time change. However, the bill's progression in the Senate is uncertain, with some lawmakers indicating strong opposition. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., acknowledged the deep divisions, stating that "there are passionate views on both sides" and that "people who are willing to really slow things down over that issue."
Proponents of permanent DST argue that it provides more evening daylight, which they see as a benefit. Conversely, opponents, particularly from northern states, voice concerns that it would lead to children having to travel to school in darkness during the early morning hours for a significant portion of the year.
Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., a vocal opponent, has previously stated his consistent opposition to permanent DST. A source close to Cotton indicated that the objection is not unique to him and that the legislation's current form requires states to have already adopted permanent standard time before the act could take effect. Currently, only Hawaii and Arizona observe permanent standard time year-round, while no states observe permanent DST.
This is not the first time Congress has attempted to establish year-round DST. In the 1970s, a similar measure was enacted but proved unpopular. Public dissatisfaction, especially from parents concerned about children waiting for school buses in the dark, led to its repeal approximately a year later.
Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., echoed these concerns, stating, "I can't support a motion to go to Daylight Saving Time, because it means that the kids in South Dakota ended up going to school in the dark for about the first hour of classes for more than six months out of a year."
Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., who co-introduced the Sunshine Protection Act a decade ago with former Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., described the issue as a "preference issue" that often follows geographic lines. He acknowledged the parental concerns but pointed out the historical origins of DST during World War I for conserving energy, a concern less relevant today with modern infrastructure.
Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., a sponsor of the bill, celebrated its passage in the House, calling it "one of the most popular things in my state." He expressed confusion over the opposition, particularly from northern states, arguing that states should have the autonomy to decide for themselves. The current legislation would allow states to observe DST year-round if they choose.