# Understanding the Sunshine Protection Act of 2023

Right now, most of the United States switches between two different times twice a year. In spring, we "spring forward" and set clocks ahead one hour for daylight saving time. In fall, we "fall back" and return to standard time. This bill would end that twice-yearly switching by making daylight saving time permanent year-round.

Here's what that means in practical terms: if this bill passes, the sun would rise and set about an hour later than it does during standard time. So instead of sunrise at 7 a.m. in winter, you might see it around 8 a.m. On the flip side, it would stay lighter later in the evening. The main effect is that you'd have more daylight in the evening throughout the year, but less morning sunlight during winter months. You'd never have to change your clocks again.

The bill does include an important exception for states and territories that have already chosen to stay on standard time year-round. Currently, Hawaii and most of Arizona don't observe daylight saving time, and this bill would let them keep that choice. Any state that has previously opted out of daylight saving time can decide whether to stay on permanent standard time or switch to permanent daylight saving time under this new system.

The core idea behind the bill is straightforward: eliminate the disruption and confusion of changing clocks twice a year. Supporters argue this would reduce the hassle of adjusting schedules and potentially improve sleep patterns by eliminating the twice-yearly time shifts. However, the trade-off is that winter mornings would be noticeably darker if daylight saving time becomes permanent.

Sunshine Protection Act of 2023

Buchanan, Vern

Sunshine Protection Act of 2023 This bill makes daylight saving time the new, permanent standard time. States with areas exempt from daylight saving time may choose the standard time for those areas.