House Passes Bill to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent

The House of Representatives voted 308-117 to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, legislation that would eliminate the biannual clock change and keep the United States on daylight saving time permanently. The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Supporters argue that a permanent shift would provide an extra hour of evening daylight, which they say could benefit families, sports activities and schools. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), a chief sponsor, said, "Polling shows that two-thirds of Americans want to unlock the clock. My bill is simply a solution to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Allowing an extra hour of sunlight in the evening gives families more time for outside sports activities and school."

Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) added, "Why are we forcing families, businesses, and communities to adjust their schedules every spring and fall? The twice-yearly clock change is a relic of the past that no longer reflects the way Americans live."

Opposition was limited to Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), who questioned the timing of the proposal, noting that other legislative priorities such as food, fuel, health care and foreign policy were more pressing. She also referenced a 1974 experiment with year-round daylight saving time that was deemed problematic.

The Senate previously approved a similar measure in 2022, but it did not advance. Senate Republican John Kennedy said the House vote could accelerate a Senate vote, adding that while some colleagues oppose the bill, a decision is expected soon.