(Photo by Juno Clark)

We have sprung forward again, and the debate over the future of Daylight Saving Time (DST) has resurfaced. For over a century, Americans have adjusted their clocks twice a year, but increasing evidence implies that this ritual may be doing more harm than good. The elimination of Daylight Saving Time and a permanent return to Standard Time is long overdue. Not only is the clock change an unnecessary disruption, but it is also increasingly clear that DST no longer serves the purpose it once did and, in fact, may be detrimental to public health and safety.

Numerous studies show the negative health effects of Daylight Saving Time. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the switch to DST is associated with a substantial increase in heart attacks, strokes and sleep deprivation-related accidents. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine called for an end to DST, citing Standard Time is “more aligned with our natural circadian rhythms.” Articles from The New York Times and CNN reported on how the clock change presents heightened workplace and traffic accidents.

Lawmakers recognize these impacts and advocate for the elimination of Daylight Saving Time altogether. In recent years, Massachusetts introduced bills to abolish DST and remain on Standard Time year-round, but Texas Congress’ decision on the matter remains pending. Support is growing to stop the practice entirely, with sleep researchers backing legislative efforts. Lawmakers argue that Daylight Saving Time is obsolete, as the original energy-saving purpose from World War I no longer applies in our modern, tech-centered society. 

There are those who argue in favor of making DST permanent to preserve longer evening daylight, which some believe boosts the economy by encouraging more shopping and outdoor activities. Fox News and USA Today covered the push by politicians like Senator Marco Rubio, who reintroduced the “Sunshine Protection Act,” which aims to lock the nation into DST permanently. Supporters of this plan claim that longer daylight in the evenings improves mood and reduces crime rates.

Despite opposing arguments, the evidence in favor of eliminating Daylight Saving Time is staggering. Health, safety and well-being should take precedence over evening recreation. Congress ought to prioritize the advice of sleep scientists and medical professionals by ending the outdated practice of Daylight Saving Time. As we change our clocks on March 9, we must urge our lawmakers to embrace permanent Standard Time for the sake of public health and national sanity.

(Photo by Juno Clark)

After another clock change on March 9, 2025, it’s becoming evident that the semiannual adjusting our schedules needs reform. However, rather than eliminating Daylight Saving Time (DST) entirely, we ought to embrace permanent DST as a means to improve our daily lives. With longer evenings, increased opportunities for economic activity and enhanced well-being, making DST permanent is the best path forward. As of February, lawmakers across the nation push to end clock changes and keep us permanently in a brighter, more productive time.

Permanent Daylight Saving Time provides longer daylight hours in the evening, which has numerous societal benefits. According to research by NBC News, extended daylight has been linked to reductions in crime rates, particularly robberies. Furthermore, evidence from Ready Messages indicates that more daylight at the end of the day encourages consumer spending, as people are more likely to shop, dine out and participate in local events after work when it’s still light out. These positive effects not only enhance our quality of life but also boost local economies.

Lawmakers recognize these benefits and push legislation to make DST permanent. Senator Marco Rubio has led the charge with the reintroduction of the “Sunshine Protection Act,” which passed unanimously in the Senate in 2022 but stalled in the House. According to The Washington Post, the Sunshine Protection Act is gaining increased bipartisan support in 2025 as more states voice their preference for longer evenings year-round. Supporters emphasize that permanent DST would eliminate the disorienting clock changes while giving Americans more daylight to enjoy.

Critics of permanent DST argue that Standard Time is more aligned with our natural sleep cycles and may be better for our health. Organizations like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine have raised concerns that darker mornings could disrupt circadian rhythms, especially in children. The New York Times has reported on these health concerns, particularly the potential for sleep loss in the winter months. These worries contain merit and deserve consideration.

Nonetheless, the benefits of permanent Daylight Saving Time outweigh the drawbacks. With longer evenings promoting safety, health, and economic prosperity, it is time for the United States to stop the clock-changing and move forward with permanent DST. We must encourage our representatives to support the Sunshine Protection Act and ensure that this March is the last time we “spring forward” or “fall back” again.