Overview
- The House approved the Sunshine Protection Act in a 308–117 vote on Tuesday, sending the measure to the Senate for consideration.
- If enacted, the law would lock the nation on daylight saving time year‑round while allowing states to opt out and remain on standard time if they act before the law takes effect.
- Nearly 19 states have prepassed laws to switch to permanent daylight saving time once federal permission exists, which could trigger rapid local changes if the bill becomes law.
- Major medical and sleep organizations say permanent standard time is healthier because it gives more morning light and better aligns circadian rhythms, while supporters cite studies linking clock shifts to short‑term spikes in heart attacks and crashes.
- The U.S. briefly tried year‑round daylight saving time in 1974 and repealed it after public backlash over dark winter mornings, a historical precedent that opponents point to as the Senate weighs the bill.