The House Rules Committee has advanced the Sunshine Protection Act, a bipartisan bill that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent across the United States, to the full House for a vote. The committee approved the rule for floor consideration in a 6-4 vote on Monday.
If passed into law, the bill would allow states to observe Daylight Saving Time year-round, with an option to opt out. Proponents argue that making the switch permanent would benefit public health, boost the economy, and enhance safety. Supporters also cite increased opportunities for outdoor recreation and economic activity.
"Americans are overwhelmingly supportive of this policy and want to end the practice of ‘springing forward’ and ‘falling back.’ Locking the clock all year long would have positive impacts on sleep schedules, energy conservation, motor vehicle safety, and our economy," said Chairman Brett Guthrie, R-Ky. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., the bill's author, stated that "Floridians and Americans across the country are tired of the biannual time change, and the evidence is clear that permanent daylight saving time can improve public health, reduce traffic accidents, lower crime and encourage more outdoor activity."
Former President Donald Trump has publicly supported making Daylight Saving Time permanent. "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," Trump said. "It will also be a very nice WIN for the Republican Party."
The legislation cleared a significant hurdle when the House Energy and Commerce Committee overwhelmingly passed the measure 48-1 in May. The Senate previously passed a version of the Sunshine Protection Act unanimously in 2022, but it stalled in the House.
However, the bill faces opposition. Some lawmakers and medical organizations argue that permanent standard time, which aligns more closely with natural circadian rhythms, would be healthier. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., proposed an amendment to make standard time permanent, but it was rejected. She and other critics, like Rep. Nanette Barragán, D-Calif., have raised concerns about the potential negative impacts on children's health and safety, particularly due to darker mornings.
Some conservative lawmakers have also expressed skepticism, suggesting that Congress should focus on other legislative priorities. Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, criticized the focus on the time change, stating, "Republicans are majoring in the minors — fiddling with the clocks while the country burns."
Currently, Daylight Saving Time is observed by every state except Hawaii and most of Arizona. Approximately 20 states have already passed legislation seeking to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, contingent on federal approval.