US House Committee Approves Bill to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent

The US House Judiciary Committee approved the bipartisan "Sunshine Protection Act" on Monday by a 6-4 vote, aiming to make daylight saving time permanent across the country. The bill, strongly supported by President Donald Trump, now moves to a full House vote. Trump has urged Congress to pass the legislation swiftly, highlighting that permanent daylight saving time would provide Americans with longer, brighter days.

Proponents argue that ending the twice-yearly clock changes will improve sleep quality, save energy, reduce traffic accidents, and boost the economy and tourism. Approximately 20 states have already passed local laws to implement permanent daylight saving time once federal approval is granted. However, medical organizations oppose the bill, warning that permanent standard time aligns better with human biological clocks and is healthier.

Democratic Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon proposed an alternative to make standard time permanent, citing concerns that permanent daylight saving time would leave many children in darkness during morning hours. Her proposal was quickly rejected by the committee. Some conservative lawmakers criticized the focus on the time change issue, arguing that leadership should prioritize border security instead.