Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday: Essential Details You Need to Know
As daylight saving time (DST) comes to an end this Sunday, many Americans will be adjusting their clocks and routines. At 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, clocks will revert back one hour. This change has mixed reactions, with some welcomed for the extra hour of sleep and others finding it inconvenient.
Key Details About Daylight Saving Time
Here’s what you need to know about DST in the United States:
- States Observing DST: Every U.S. state participates in DST, with the exception of Hawaii and Arizona. Notably, the Navajo Nation within Arizona does observe the change.
- U.S. Territories: Territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands also do not change their clocks.
- Legislation for Year-Round DST: Nineteen states have passed laws aiming for year-round DST, but federal approval is needed for such changes to take effect.
Public Opinion on Daylight Saving Time
Public sentiment regarding the DST system is largely critical. A recent AP-NORC poll revealed that only 12% of U.S. adults support the current system. Additionally, 47% oppose it. An overwhelming 56% expressed a preference for permanent DST, enjoying more light during the evening hours. Conversely, 42% favored maintaining standard time for brighter mornings.
Attempts to Make DST Permanent
Past attempts to establish permanent daylight saving time have faced challenges. Former President Donald Trump previously urged Congress to pass a bill promoting year-round DST. However, progress has stalled in Congress again. For instance, the Sunshine Protection Act, introduced by Senator Rick Scott of Florida, seeks to end the semiannual clock changes, but it has encountered objections.
Senator Tom Cotton has voiced concerns about the impact of permanent DST on winter mornings, arguing it would lead to significantly later sunrises. He noted the importance of morning sunlight for health and safety.
Despite past support from lawmakers like former Senator Marco Rubio, the Sunshine Protection Act has not progressed past the Senate, demonstrating ongoing debates regarding time regulation in the U.S.
