U.S. lawmakers held their first hearing in over three years on whether to end the biannual clock changes associated with daylight saving time (DST). The Senate Commerce Committee gathered on Thursday to revisit the ongoing debate: should the country adopt permanent daylight saving time or stay on standard time year-round?
In 2022, the Senate unanimously passed a bill to make DST permanent, but the measure stalled in the House. Committee chair Senator Ted Cruz acknowledged widespread support for ending the clock-switching but questioned whether to lock the clock on daylight saving or standard time.
Democratic Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester called for a resolution, emphasizing the need for consistency. While some suggest allowing states to choose their preferred time, critics warn this could create a confusing national patchwork.
Supporters of permanent daylight saving time argue it provides longer evening daylight, which can boost consumer spending and recreational activities. The National Golf Course Owners Association estimates that adopting DST year-round could generate 23 million more rounds of golf annually and increase industry revenue by $1 billion.
However, health experts urge a shift to permanent standard time. Neurology professor Karin Johnson testified that standard time better aligns with human circadian rhythms, improves sleep, enhances productivity, and reduces health risks. Critics of DST also point to increased car accidents and sleep disruption caused by the seasonal clock changes.
Historically, the U.S. tried year-round DST during World War II and again in 1973 amid an energy crisis, but it was repealed after public backlash.
Despite the renewed interest, former President Donald Trump recently stated there's still no consensus in Congress, making near-term action unlikely.
The debate continues, with growing pressure to "lock the clock" and end the decades-long practice of changing time twice a year.