The House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent across the United States.
The House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act with a 308-117 vote, moving the nation closer to making daylight saving time a permanent fixture. The legislation, which has the personal backing of President Trump, would eliminate the twice-yearly ritual of changing clocks. The administration announced that the bill now heads to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain due to concerns regarding state mandates and potential logistical hurdles. While the bill offers more evening sunshine during the winter, it faces opposition from various sectors. Orthodox Jewish organizations, including Agudath Israel of America, worry that later sunrises will delay morning prayers and affect work schedules. Additionally, health experts warn of potential increases in seasonal depression and heart attacks, while the aviation industry cautions that permanent daylight saving time could require up to 24 months of costly operational adjustments for airlines and railroads. Supporters argue the move will reduce energy use, while critics fear children may have to commute to school in the dark during winter months.
Sources
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What’s next for daylight saving time? GOP leader warns of ‘main concern’
NJ.com
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Daylight saving time forever? No thank you, President Trump. | Opinion
USA Today
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Why Orthodox Jews are opposing the new daylight saving bill in Congress
NPR
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Airlines warn adjusting to permanent daylight saving time could take up to 2 years
CBS News