Congress will have the final vote on passing a bill to make Daylight Savings Time, the standard for the entire year.
A bill co-authored by Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) and Senator Marco Rubio (R) has passed in the United State’s Senate and now heads to Congress for a final vote. The bill would officially make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent across the United States.
That means the part of the year that has more daylight at the end of the day would last all year long. Currently DST begins Sunday, March 14, and lasts until Sunday, November 7.
The Sunshine Protection Act of 2021 would do away with the need for Americans to change clocks twice a year. Many studies have shown that making DST permanent could benefit the economy and the country.
“The public safety improvements, economic benefits, and the wellbeing of the American people are all excellent and credible reasons to embrace year-long Daylight Saving Time,” Hyde-Smith said. “I know the agricultural sector in Mississippi and across the nation desires this change. I believe the Sunshine Protection Act would give us an immediate and long-term boost after a terrible pandemic year and a very dark winter.”
“The call to end the antiquated practice of clock changing is gaining momentum throughout the nation,” Rubio said. “Studies have shown many benefits of a year-round Daylight Saving Time, which is why the Florida legislature voted to make it permanent in 2018. I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, and give our nation’s families more stability throughout the year.”
The legislation, if enacted, would apply to those states who currently participate in DST, which most states observe for eight months out of the year. The remaining four months, November to March, fall under Standard Time.
Florida legislature in 2018 enacted year-round DST; however, for the act to apply, a change in the federal statute is required. Fifteen other states including Mississippi have passed similar laws, resolutions or voter initiatives, and other states are considering similar action.
Mississippi passed a law and resolution of intent to extend Daylight Saving Time year round if approved by the federal government.
Additional cosponsors of Rubio’s legislation include Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
Sarah Ulmer
