Overview
- The House approved the Sunshine Protection Act by a 308–117 vote on July 14, 2026, sending legislation to the Senate that would eliminate the twice‑yearly clock change for states that observe daylight saving time.
- President Donald Trump has publicly urged senators on Truth Social to pass the bill, framing year‑round daylight saving time as a bipartisan convenience and citing studies on crime, traffic and economic benefits.
- The Senate is in recess until Sept. 21, 2026, creating a tight window for action if lawmakers want any change to take effect before the November clock change.
- Medical and sleep groups generally prefer permanent standard time because it better matches human circadian rhythms, and critics point to the 1973–1974 experiment that was repealed after dark winter mornings drew sharp public backlash.
- Alternatives in Congress include a bill to lock in standard time and proposals for compromise shifts such as a permanent 30‑minute adjustment, and senators are weighing procedural hurdles, health and safety concerns, and varied impacts across states.