US Clocks Spring Forward Sunday, Daylight Saving Debate Grows

Most of the United States will move clocks forward by one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday as daylight saving time (DST) begins, creating a 23-hour day and temporarily disrupting sleep schedules for millions of people.

The twice-yearly clock change often causes complaints from Americans who say it affects their sleep, daily routines and morning activities. Early-morning routines, including commuting and walking pets, will also become darker for a few days.

Public Opinion Divided on Clock Changes

Despite growing dissatisfaction with changing clocks twice a year, the U.S. government has not yet agreed on a permanent solution. Surveys show that many Americans want the clock changes to end, but there is disagreement on what should replace the system.

An AP-NORC poll conducted last year found that only about 1 in 10 U.S. adults support the current system of switching clocks twice annually. Around half oppose it, while roughly 40% said they have no strong opinion.

Among those who favor change, most prefer permanent daylight saving time, which would keep evenings brighter throughout the year.

Policy Challenges for Lawmakers

Several states have already taken steps toward making daylight saving time permanent. Since 2018, at least 19 states have passed laws or resolutions supporting the change.

However, there is a major hurdle: Congress must approve any nationwide shift to permanent daylight saving time before states can fully implement it.

The U.S. Senate passed a bill in 2022 that proposed making daylight saving time permanent, but the legislation has not yet been approved by the House of Representatives.

Some lawmakers say industries such as airlines have raised concerns about potential scheduling complications if the system changes.

Another proposal from some politicians suggests moving clocks by 30 minutes permanently, creating a middle ground between standard time and daylight saving time. This would make the United States slightly out of sync with most countries, although similar time offsets exist in places like India and Nepal.

Health Experts Prefer Standard Time

Sleep experts and medical professionals generally support permanent standard time rather than permanent daylight saving time.

They argue that morning sunlight plays an important role in regulating the body’s internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm. According to researchers, better morning light exposure can improve alertness and overall health.

Studies have also found that in the days following the spring clock change, there can be higher risks of fatal car crashes, heart attacks and strokes due to disrupted sleep.

Current Exceptions in the United States

Most U.S. states follow daylight saving time, but Arizona (except the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii do not observe it.

In recent years, some states have also considered adopting permanent standard time instead of daylight saving time. However, many proposals include conditions requiring neighboring states to adopt the same system to avoid confusion in broadcasting schedules, transportation and business operations.

Debate Likely to Continue

Advocates for ending the clock change say the federal government should set a clear deadline for reform and allow states to choose either permanent daylight saving time or standard time.

Until then, Americans will continue adjusting their clocks twice a year — a practice that remains one of the most debated time-related policies in the country.