The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill to make daylight saving time permanent, a move that would end the biannual practice of changing clocks. The Sunshine Protection Act, which has bipartisan support, would allow states to opt out of the change if they choose to do so.
Background
Daylight saving time has been in place in nearly all of the United States since the 1960s, with the exception of Arizona and Hawaii. The practice of changing clocks has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it has economic benefits and others citing concerns about its impact on health.
Supporters of the bill, including Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., who authored the measure, argue that ending the clock change is a commonsense reform that would improve everyday life for millions of Americans. They also point to potential economic benefits, such as boosted tourism and outdoor recreation.
However, not everyone is in support of the bill. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., has expressed opposition, citing concerns that the change would result in “absurdly late” winter sunrises and force children to “walk to school in the pitch black” in much of the country.
The bill now moves to the Senate for a vote. If it passes, it would need to be signed into law by President Trump, who has expressed support for the measure.
Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
