Donald Trump Urges Senate to Make Daylight Saving Permanent

President Donald Trump is urging the U.S. Senate to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent and eliminate the biannual practice of changing clocks. The legislation previously passed the House in July with a 308-to-117 bipartisan vote but has since stalled in the Senate.

Opposition is led by lawmakers from states that would face late winter sunrises. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas argues that permanent daylight saving time would force children to attend school in the dark. In contrast, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona advocates for permanent standard time, asserting that it is the superior option because it aligns with science and circadian rhythms.

The legislative window is narrow as the Senate is adjourned until after the midterms, leaving little time for a vote before January. While supporters like PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp claim the change would increase economic activity and recreation, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine warns that permanent daylight saving time could result in chronic sleep deprivation.