As August draws to a close and summer begins to fade, temperatures are dipping below 90 degrees, prompting thoughts about the upcoming end of daylight saving time.
This year, as usual, the clocks will fall back on Sunday, November 3, marking the start of shorter days. While opinions on this practice vary, one clear advantage is that everyone gains an extra hour of sleep.
Could pennsylvania be the first state to eliminate daylight saving time?
Residents of Pennsylvania may soon say goodbye to daylight saving time for good. In April 2021, the state’s House of Representatives passed a bill by a narrow 103-98 vote, potentially leading to a permanent daylight saving time, eliminating the twice-yearly clock changes.
Reasons to adopt permanent daylight saving time
- Energy savings: Studies suggest that keeping daylight saving time year-round could reduce energy consumption.
- Fewer traffic accidents: The disruption caused by changing clocks has been linked to an increase in traffic accidents, which could decrease with a consistent time.
- Reduced crime rates: More daylight in the evening might help lower crime rates.
- Healthier lifestyles: A permanent time change could promote better and more consistent health habits.
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, who sponsored the bill, described changing the clocks as “inefficient and outdated.” Mackenzie believes there is growing support for a permanent time standard and wants Pennsylvania to lead the way in this movement.
A growing national movement
Pennsylvania isn’t alone in this push. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), over 650 bills and motions have been introduced across the United States aimed at making daylight saving time year-round.
Until a new law is passed, daylight saving time is still set to end this year on Sunday, November 3. Whether this will be the last time Pennsylvanians adjust their clocks remains uncertain, but the trend is clear—many are ready for a permanent change.