House Approves Permanent Daylight Saving Time Bill

The Sunshine Protection Act, introduced by Representative Vern Buchanan of Florida, would end the twice-yearly clock change starting in November 2027. Under the measure, clocks would spring forward one hour in March and then stay there, eliminating the fall-back shift.

Supporters argue that permanent daylight saving time would reduce car crashes, lower energy use, and improve public health by allowing more evening sunlight. Opponents, however, point to studies showing that darker winter mornings could increase risks for schoolchildren and early-shift workers.

The bill now moves to the Senate, where a similar measure stalled in the previous Congress. If passed, the United States would join a small group of countries that have abolished seasonal time changes, though states could still opt out under the proposal.

The vote came after years of state-level action, with 19 states having already passed laws or resolutions to adopt permanent daylight saving time if federal law allowed. The White House has not yet issued a statement on the bill.