The House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced legislation on May 21 that would make daylight saving time (DST) permanent, passing the bill in a 48-1 vote. The Sunshine Protection Act, introduced by Florida Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan, was included in a larger transportation funding package. President Donald Trump has expressed strong support for the bill, calling it a "very nice WIN for the Republican Party."
Health Experts Weigh In
Dr. Wendy Troxel, a senior behavioral scientist at RAND, argues that ending biannual clock changes is widely supported by sleep scientists and the public. However, she contends that permanent DST is "not supported by science," citing evidence that permanent standard time aligns better with human circadian rhythms. Major sleep medicine organizations, including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, have endorsed permanent standard time over DST.
State-Level Actions
Nineteen states have enacted legislation to adopt permanent DST, awaiting federal action. Florida was the first state to pass such legislation in 2018, followed by Maine and Texas last year. Only Hawaii and most of Arizona currently observe standard time year-round.
Economic and Practical Considerations
Trump highlighted the costs associated with changing clocks twice a year, stating that the bill would eliminate the "ridiculous, twice yearly production." Proponents argue that permanent DST would provide longer, brighter evenings, benefiting businesses and public safety.
Opposing Views
Critics of permanent DST warn of potential disruptions to sleep patterns and increased health risks, such as spikes in car crashes and heart attacks. The debate continues as the bill moves toward a full House vote.