The House voted Tuesday to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent nationwide while allowing states to opt out. The measure passed 308-171 with bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate, where a similar proposal was approved in 2022 but did not become law after the House declined to act.
Current federal law allows states to remain on Standard Time throughout the year, as Hawaii and most of Arizona do. It does not allow states to adopt permanent Daylight Saving Time without congressional approval. If enacted, the legislation would reverse that framework, setting Daylight Saving Time as the default while preserving state flexibility.
Supporters say the change would end the twice-yearly clock adjustments that many Americans oppose. They argue that later sunsets could encourage outdoor activity, reduce traffic accidents, and lower crime rates. Rep. Vern Buchanan of Florida, the bill’s sponsor, has introduced similar legislation in recent years and described the proposal as a practical reform with broad public appeal. President Donald Trump has also supported permanent Daylight Saving Time, urging Congress to pursue more evening daylight.
Public opinion shows general support for ending clock changes, though preferences vary on which time system should remain. A recent survey found 43% of Americans favor permanent Daylight Saving Time, while 28% prefer permanent Standard Time.
Critics, including sleep experts, support ending clock changes but argue Standard Time is the healthier permanent option. They say it better matches human circadian rhythms and could improve sleep, safety, and health. The United States previously tried permanent Daylight Saving Time in 1974, but the policy was repealed within a year after concerns about dark winter mornings.
Several states, including Florida, Georgia, Oregon, Texas, and others, have signaled interest in adopting year-round Daylight Saving Time if Congress permits it.