WATCH: House passes bill to make daylight saving time permanent

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to make daylight saving time permanent, sending the "Sunshine Protection Act" to the Senate. The bill passed with a 308-117 vote, reflecting a desire among many lawmakers to "ditch the switch" and eliminate the biannual clock changes.

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Americans are ready to "ditch the switch."

Supporters, including the White House, contend that permanent daylight saving time would offer more daylight during peak activity hours. Representative Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., highlighted the economic benefits for his home state of Florida, where tourism is a cornerstone, stating that predictable daylight hours would help workers, businesses, and visitors. The argument is that extended evening daylight encourages outdoor activities and supports local economies.

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In my home state of Florida where tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, having more predictable daylight hours is a practical improvement that benefits workers, businesses and visitors alike.

However, the proposal faces opposition. Detractors worry about the consequences of darker winter mornings, citing potential hazards for children waiting for school buses and for parents commuting to work in the dark. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., voiced concerns that millions of Americans would face complete darkness upon waking during winter months, long after their day has begun.

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Millions of Americans will wake up during the winter months in complete darkness with the sun not rising until long after people get up and travel to school or work or have to go about their days.

Some lawmakers also question the urgency of the bill. Representative Jim McGovern, D-Mass., while supporting the measure, asked if it was the most pressing issue for Congress, given economic concerns like rent, groceries, and healthcare costs. Public opinion, according to a 2025 AP-NORC poll, shows a preference for permanent daylight saving time, with 56% of adults favoring more evening light, while about 40% prefer standard time with more morning light.

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For folks getting crushed by rent, groceries, utility bills and healthcare costs, is this really the best the majority can do? Is this really the most pressing issue before the American people at this moment?