U.S. Senate stalls Sunshine Protection Act for permanent daylight saving time

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act, which would allow states to adopt permanent daylight saving time (DST) and end the twice‑yearly clock change. President Donald Trump publicly backs the measure, and supporters argue it would reduce traffic deaths, improve public safety and give more evening daylight.

In the Senate, the bill faces strong opposition, with senators such as Tom Cotton (R‑AR) and Steve Daines (R‑MT) warning that later winter sunrises would leave schoolchildren and commuters in darkness. Critics also cite health concerns and argue that permanent standard time may be safer. Florida Senator Rick Scott is among the vocal proponents, urging the Senate to act quickly. A new map shows nineteen states with laws ready to adopt permanent DST if federal approval is granted, while several senators have publicly expressed reservations. The legislation now awaits Senate action before it can become law.