In a rare show of unity, Republican and Democrat senators are pushing to abolish Daylight Saving Time (DST), citing its detrimental effects on health, safety, and the economy. The Senate Commerce Committee convened to address the biannual clock changes, with lawmakers and experts highlighting the adverse consequences of the practice.
Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) emphasized that the original intent of DST—to conserve energy—is now obsolete. He pointed out that the time shifts lead to increased traffic accidents, workplace disruptions, and challenges for the agricultural sector due to darker mornings.
Cruz stated, “We find ourselves adjusting our clocks… springing forward and falling back in the fall. For many Americans, this biannual ritual is a minor inconvenience… But when we take a closer look at the implications of changing the clocks, its impact on our economy, our health and our everyday lives, we can see that this practice is more than an annoyance.”
Health experts, including Dr. Karin Johnson, testified about the negative health impacts of DST, such as disruptions to circadian rhythms, increased risk of heart issues, and sleep deprivation. She advocated for permanent standard time, aligning with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s position that standard time is more beneficial for health and well-being.
Senator Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-DE) supported the move to end DST, noting the widespread agreement on the need for a consistent national time standard. She acknowledged past legislative efforts, like Senator Marco Rubio’s Sunshine Protection Act, which aimed to make DST permanent but stalled in the House.
While some industries, such as golf and tourism, benefit from extended daylight hours, critics argue that the overall societal costs outweigh these gains. The debate continues on whether to adopt permanent standard time or permanent DST, with public opinion divided. A 2023 YouGov poll found that 62% of Americans prefer to stop switching clocks, with half supporting permanent daylight time and 31% favoring permanent standard time.
Despite bipartisan support, President Trump has noted the lack of consensus on the issue, making near-term legislative action unlikely. The discussion underscores the complexities of time regulation and its far-reaching implications on daily life.
