WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a major bipartisan move that could end the long-standing practice of changing clocks twice a year, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Sunshine Protection Act, legislation that would make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent across most of the United States.
The bill passed by a 308–117 vote and now heads to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain. If approved by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump, Americans would no longer “spring forward” in March and “fall back” in November. Instead, clocks would remain one hour ahead throughout the year.
Supporters of the measure argue that ending the twice-yearly clock changes would reduce sleep disruption, improve public safety, lower workplace accidents, and provide more evening daylight for recreation and business activity. The White House has backed the legislation, calling it a common-sense reform that would benefit millions of Americans.
However, the proposal has also drawn criticism. Opponents, including some lawmakers, medical experts, and industry groups, warn that permanent Daylight Saving Time could lead to significantly darker winter mornings, raising safety concerns for schoolchildren, commuters, and outdoor workers. Airlines have also cautioned that the change could require extensive adjustments to domestic and international flight schedules.
The United States previously experimented with permanent Daylight Saving Time during the 1974 energy crisis, but the policy was repealed within a year after widespread public complaints about dark winter mornings.
Public opinion has shifted in recent years. Surveys indicate that most Americans favor ending the biannual clock changes, although opinions remain divided over whether the country should adopt permanent Daylight Saving Time or permanent Standard Time.
If enacted, the legislation would represent one of the most significant changes to the nation’s timekeeping system in decades, affecting daily routines, schools, businesses, transportation, and millions of Americans nationwide.
