The US House of Representatives approved the Sunshine Protection Act on July 14, 2026, by a vote of 308-117 to establish permanent daylight saving time across most of the country [1, 2, 3]. The bill would end the twice-yearly clock changes currently practiced in the US between March and November, keeping clocks on daylight saving time year-round [1, 3].

Republican Representative Vern Buchanan of Florida introduced the bill in January 2025, with Senator Rick Scott filing a companion bill in the Senate at the same time [1, 2, 3]. The House Energy and Commerce Committee passed the act overwhelmingly by 48-1 in May 2026 before the full House vote [4].

President Donald Trump has voiced strong support for making daylight saving time permanent, calling the clock changes a "ridiculous, twice yearly production." He said, "It's time that people can stop worrying about the 'Clock,' not to mention all of the work and money that is spent on this ridiculous, twice yearly production. It will also be a very nice WIN for the Republican Party. Take it!" and "We are going with the far more popular alternative, Saving Daylight, which gives you a longer, brighter Day. And who can be against that." [1, 2]

Supporters argue permanent daylight saving time provides longer evening daylight that benefits health and recreation while eliminating the disruptions caused by changing clocks twice a year [1, 2]. Buchanan said clock changes disrupt schedules "for no good reason." [1]

However, critics warn permanent daylight saving time could cause darker winter mornings, raising safety concerns for early commuters and schoolchildren [1, 2, 3]. Some Senate Republicans have expressed opposition or uncertainty about the bill, signaling potential challenges ahead [2, 3, 4]. Senator John Barrasso said of the Senate's prospects, "We'll see what happens when it gets here." [3]

Currently, most US states observe daylight saving time for about eight months, while Hawaii, Arizona, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands opt out [1, 2, 3]. The Uniform Time Act standardized clock changes federally in 1966 following the initial daylight saving time measures enacted during World War One [1, 2, 3].

As of August 2026, the bill awaits Senate consideration amid divided support and opposition, with some members threatening to block it even if it passes the House [2, 3, 4].