Buchanan’s new bill calls for year-round daylight saving time

With daylight saving time (DST) ending on Nov. 1 when Americans turn back their clocks an hour for the next four months, U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) introduced timely legislation aimed at making the process obsolete.

Rep. Buchanan this week introduced the Sunshine Protection Act to end the twice-a-year clock change that takes place every November and March, according to a bill summary provided by the congressman’s office. 

A companion bill, S. 4582, was introduced on Sept. 15 by U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and would temporarily extend DST. 

Florida is one of 12 states that has voted to eliminate the time change and move to permanent daylight saving time, but congressional approval is required, according to Rep. Buchanan’s office, which noted that President Donald Trump has indicated he would sign the bill.

“Changing our clocks twice a year is inconvenient and entirely unnecessary,” said Rep. Buchanan. “It’s time to end this antiquated practice.”

The lawmaker said there are “enormous health and economic benefits” to making DST permanent. 

For instance, myriad studies show that making DST permanent could benefit the economy and the country by reducing car crashes and car accidents involving pedestrians; decreasing the risk for cardiac issues, stroke and seasonal depression, as well as childhood obesity; reducing the number of robberies; and improving the economy by increased economic activity and reduced energy usage, among others, according to Rep. Buchanan’s office.

If enacted, the measure would not alter or change time zones; change the amount of hours of sunlight; or mandate those who do not currently observe DST to do so (American Samoa, most of Arizona, Guam, Hawaii, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), according to a one-page summary of the bill.