Legislation to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent Under Review

The Trump administration is reconsidering the possibility of ending biannual clock changes, aiming to make daylight saving time (DST) permanent. On May 21, the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced legislation for permanent DST with a 48-1 vote, part of a bipartisan effort to eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes. Health experts, however, warn that permanent DST could disrupt people's circadian rhythms. Dr. Wendy Troxel, a psychologist and senior behavioral scientist at RAND, stated that while ending biannual clock changes is generally welcomed, permanent DST is not scientifically supported. Major sleep medicine organizations, including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, have advocated for permanent standard time instead. Troxel explained that standard time aligns better with human biology, while permanent DST could lead to health and safety issues, as it shifts morning sunlight to the evening. The U.S. previously attempted permanent DST in the 1970s, which was repealed due to public dissatisfaction and no significant energy savings. Troxel emphasized that morning light is crucial for regulating sleep and mental health, and permanent DST could exacerbate sleep deprivation, particularly among teenagers.