Source: Fox News
Summary
The House Rules Committee has approved a floor vote on the Sunshine Protection Act, which would allow states to enact Daylight Saving Time year-round. The measure has bipartisan support, including from President Donald Trump, who has advocated for ending the twice-a-year clock change. Proponents argue that permanent Daylight Saving Time would boost outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic activity, while opponents claim it would pose health and safety risks. The legislation has already passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee and has support from roughly 20 states.
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As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
The House Rules Committee voted 6-4 to approve the rule, with Chairman Brett Guthrie and Rep. Vern Buchanan advocating for the measure. President Trump has also voiced his support, calling it a “commonsense reform” that would improve everyday life for Americans. The legislation’s momentum comes after the House Energy and Commerce Committee overwhelmingly passed the measure 48-1 in May. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon proposed an amendment to make standard time permanent nationwide, but it was quickly rejected.
Some lawmakers are concerned that permanent Daylight Saving Time would pose significant health and safety risks, particularly for children. Others argue that the issue is not a priority, with Rep. Keith Self calling it “fiddling with the clocks while the country burns.” The Senate unanimously passed a version of the Sunshine Protection Act in 2022, but it died in the House.
The debate has become a familiar ritual, with lawmakers repeating familiar arguments and concerns. The outcome is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the clock is ticking.
Author: Evan Null
