In brief
The U.S. House of Representatives voted 308‑117 to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, which would abolish the summer and winter clock changes and keep the country on daylight saving time all year. The bipartisan bill, introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan and mirrored by Senator Rick Scott, reflects long‑standing support for permanent DST that President Trump has championed since his second term. Critics warn that darker winter mornings could increase driving hazards, while supporters cite energy savings, fewer work disruptions and health benefits from more daylight in the morning. The Senate is now slated to consider a similar version of the legislation, which could reshape the national time‑keeping system if approved.
US Congress moves to make daylight saving time permanent
The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to abolish the traditional spring‑to‑summer and autumn‑to‑winter clock changes under the Sunshine Protection Act. The bill passed with a 308‑117 vote, a clear sign of bipartisan support.
If enacted, the change would keep the United States on what is now called permanent daylight saving time from March to November, eliminating the seasonal shift entirely. Republicans and Democrats alike argue that the twice‑year change disrupts schedules and costs billions in wasted time and energy.
During the final count, Representative Scott DesJarlais showed a clip of The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun” from his phone, underscoring the hopeful tone of the House session.
The move builds on a long history of bipartisan interest: President Donald Trump pledged to end the clock changes in his 2017 inaugural address, and he continues to push for legislation that would do so. As the Senate prepares to review the bill, the potential shift to a permanent long‑summer time has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public.
The Sunshine Protection Act is the same legislation introduced by Florida Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan last January. Representative Rick Scott of Florida has also filed an identical bill in the Senate. Both Bills will now face scrutiny in the upper chamber.
Critics of permanent daylight saving time warn that darker winter mornings may worsen dangerous driving conditions. Supporters counter that more daylight in the morning can improve sleep cycles and overall health. Learn how daylight saving time affects our health.
Worldwide, only about a third of countries observe daylight saving time, most of them in Europe. Explore the history and health implications of daylight saving worldwide.
The debate over permanent daylight saving time reflects the wider conversation about energy saving, public safety, and the future of U.S. timekeeping. The Senate’s next move will determine whether the country finally ends the twice‑year clock changes that have frustrated millions for decades.
