House passes bill to make daylight saving time permanent

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to make daylight saving time permanent across the country, advancing a bill aimed at ending the twice-yearly clock changes. The measure, known as the Sunshine Protection Act, passed with a significant margin of 308 votes in favor to 117 against.

If enacted, the bill would keep clocks permanently shifted one hour ahead, as they are during daylight saving time. It also includes a provision allowing states to opt for standard time if they currently have an exemption in place before the federal law takes effect. Hawaii and most of Arizona are the only states that currently observe standard time year-round.

Supporters of the legislation argue that making daylight saving time permanent would positively impact sleep schedules, public health, and the economy. They also suggest it would provide more daylight hours in the evenings throughout the year. However, critics express concerns that the extended darkness during winter mornings could negatively affect health and safety.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where its prospects remain uncertain. The Senate previously passed a similar measure in 2022, but it did not advance in the House. Democratic Senator Patty Murray, who has previously championed efforts to make daylight saving time permanent, is urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune to bring the bill to a vote promptly.

President Trump has expressed support for the bill, stating he would sign it into law if it reaches his desk. Daylight saving time was originally enacted in 1918 to conserve energy during World War I and was reinstated during World War II. A brief attempt to make it permanent in 1973 was reversed after public dissatisfaction.

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I don't really know anybody who wants to change the clock anymore