House Panel Advances Bill on Permanent Daylight Saving Time

The House Energy and Commerce Committee voted 48-1 on Thursday to advance a bill that includes making Daylight Saving Time permanent, according to multiple reports. The proposal, known as the Sunshine Protection Act, was folded into a broader transportation bill and will now proceed to the House floor for consideration.

The legislation has garnered bipartisan support, with 32 cosponsors in the House and 18 in the Senate. President Donald Trump praised the vote on social media, stating that it would save hundreds of millions of dollars spent annually on changing clocks and provide brighter evenings. "It’s time that people can stop worrying about the ‘Clock,’ not to mention all of the work and money that is spent on this ridiculous, twice yearly production," Trump posted.

Supporters argue that permanent Daylight Saving Time would improve safety, boost economic activity during winter months, and eliminate the disruption caused by biannual clock changes. Representative Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), who introduced the bill, noted that it is popular in Florida due to the benefits for evening activities like golf and sports.

However, the bill faces opposition from some lawmakers, including Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), who argues that permanent Daylight Saving Time would result in late winter sunrises and force children to go to school in darkness. The Senate previously passed a similar bill in 2022, but it stalled in the House.

Public opinion on the issue is divided. While many Americans support ending the practice of switching clocks twice a year, there is disagreement over whether Daylight Saving Time or standard time should be permanent. Polls show that a majority prefer Year-round Daylight Saving Time, but others advocate for permanent standard time due to health and safety concerns.