States Aim To End Daylight Saving: 6 Weeks Left
The clock is ticking, literally, as the debate over daylight saving time (DST) heats up. With just six weeks left until the clocks spring forward on March 12, 2023, several states are pushing to make standard time the permanent norm.
The Push for Change:
Why the sudden urgency? Well, a growing number of Americans are tired of the annual time switch, citing health, safety, and even economic concerns.
Here's why:
- Health Concerns: Studies have linked DST to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other health problems. The disruption to our sleep-wake cycle can have a significant impact on our well-being.
- Safety Issues: The extra hour of darkness in the evening during standard time is argued to increase traffic accidents and crime rates.
- Economic Impact: Businesses across various sectors, including agriculture and retail, claim they face disruptions and inefficiencies due to the time change.
States Taking Action:
This growing movement has translated into concrete action. Several states have already passed legislation to permanently adopt standard time and are awaiting federal approval:
- Florida
- Oregon
- Washington
- California
- Idaho
- Arizona
- Hawaii
The Federal Decision:
The final decision rests with Congress. The Sunshine Protection Act of 2021, which would have made DST permanent, passed the Senate but stalled in the House. The recent wave of state legislation could put renewed pressure on lawmakers to act.
What Happens Next:
With the clock ticking, we can expect a flurry of activity in the coming weeks. We'll see if enough states pass legislation to build momentum for federal action. Will the U.S. finally join the growing list of countries that have abolished DST, or will we continue to switch back and forth?
Stay tuned as the fight for standard time continues.
