The House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would establish Daylight Saving Time as permanent across the United States and eliminate the need to change clocks twice a year. The vote was 308-117.
Supporters of the legislation argue that making Daylight Saving Time permanent would provide more daylight in the evenings, offering families more time for outdoor activities and school-related events. Proponents also contend that the twice-yearly clock change is a relic of the past that no longer aligns with modern American life. "Why are we forcing families, businesses, and communities to adjust their schedules every spring and fall?" asked Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), a sponsor of the bill. "The twice-yearly clock change is a relic of the past that no longer reflects the way Americans live."
The bill now moves to the Senate. A similar measure passed the Senate in 2022 but did not advance in the House. This updated version has garnered support from former President Donald Trump, who has previously called switching clocks "ridiculous."
However, not all lawmakers are in favor. Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) was the sole member to speak in opposition during the House debate. She argued that Congress should prioritize addressing pressing issues such as the rising costs of food, fuel, and healthcare, rather than debating the time change. Dean also referenced a past experiment with year-round Daylight Saving Time in 1974, which she described as "deadly and dangerous."
That 1974 experiment, implemented to address the OPEC oil embargo and fuel shortages, led to children going to school in the dark, prompting public outcry. Public support for the year-round time switch, initially high, significantly dropped.
In 2022, the Senate unexpectedly passed a similar bill, but it stalled in the House. The current bill's progression suggests a potential shift in how the country observes time, though its final passage will depend on the Senate's action.