U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, along with other senators, has introduced a bill to make daylight saving time permanent. This bipartisan initiative also has the support of President Donald Trump.

The Sunshine Protection Act aims to “lock the clock,” ending the biannual time changes and establishing daylight saving time as the national year-round standard.

Many people believe the practice of changing clocks is outdated. They argue that making daylight saving time permanent would benefit those who enjoy outdoor activities.

“I hear from Americans constantly that they are sick and tired of changing their clocks twice a year. It’s an unnecessary, decades-old practice that’s more of an annoyance to families than a benefit to them,” Scott said in a statement. “I’m excited to have President Trump back in the White House and fully on board to LOCK THE CLOCK so we can get this good bill passed and make this common-sense change that will simplify and benefit the lives of American families.”

If passed, this bill would result in later sunrise and sunset times during the winter months.

While long-time golfer Garry Colvin looks forward to how the change might improve his golf game, some health experts warn of potential health impacts.

A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) revealed that 63% of Americans prefer to eliminate seasonal time changes, and 55% experience tiredness following the switch.

According to the AASM, standard time aligns more closely with our body’s natural circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep-wake cycles. Prolonged light exposure during daylight saving time can delay bedtime and disrupt sleep patterns.

“It disrupts our body clocks, affects our sleep quality, and increases the risk of avoidable health and safety incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, cardiovascular events, and even workplace errors in the days following the time change,” said Jay Pea, co-chair of the coalition and president of Save Standard Time. “Adopting permanent standard time, on the other hand, offers a better solution for year-round well-being.”

This year, daylight saving time begins on March 9. 

The AASM offers tips for transitioning to daylight saving time:

• Get at least seven hours of sleep per night before and after the time change. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is crucial.
• A few days before the time change, gradually move your bedtime and wake-up time 15-20 minutes earlier each night.
• Adjust the timing of daily routines that are “time cues” for your body, such as your mealtimes or exercise schedule.
• Set offline clocks ahead one hour on the evening of Saturday, March 8, and go to bed at your usual time. Online clocks will adjust automatically at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9.
• Head outdoors for early morning sunlight the week after the time change. The bright light will help set your internal clock to the new time, regulating sleep and alertness.

The bill, previously passed by the Senate in 2022 but not enacted into law, was reintroduced in January and is currently under review by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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