Daylight Saving Time Returns Sunday and May End Clock Changes

Daylight saving time returns on Sunday, March 8, when clocks across most of the United States will “spring forward” by one hour at 2 a.m. local time. The annual time change marks the beginning of longer daylight hours in the evening, but for millions of Americans it may also represent the final time the clocks are adjusted.

Under daylight saving time, clocks move forward in the spring and back again in the fall. The practice was introduced to make better use of daylight during the warmer months by shifting an hour of daylight from the morning to the evening. Supporters argue that it encourages outdoor activities, supports retail and tourism businesses, and reduces energy consumption.

However, the twice-yearly clock change has become increasingly controversial. Critics say the time shift disrupts sleep patterns and biological rhythms, leading to short-term health effects and reduced productivity in the days immediately following the transition. Studies have also linked the spring change to a temporary increase in workplace accidents, heart attacks, and traffic incidents.

The debate has prompted several U.S. states to push for a permanent time system. In 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, a proposal that would make daylight saving time permanent nationwide. If enacted, the measure would eliminate the need to change clocks twice a year and keep the country on daylight saving time throughout the year.

The legislation has not yet become law, however. While the Senate approved the bill unanimously, it stalled in the House of Representatives and has yet to move forward again. Lawmakers remain divided over whether the United States should adopt permanent daylight saving time or return to permanent standard time.

Some states have already passed legislation supporting a permanent switch, but they cannot implement the change without federal approval. As a result, most Americans continue to adjust their clocks twice a year.

There are a few exceptions. Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe daylight saving time and remain on standard time year-round. U.S. territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also do not change their clocks.

For travelers, the time shift can affect flight schedules, meeting times, and international connections. Airlines and travel providers typically update schedules well in advance, but passengers should double-check departure times during the transition period.

Whether daylight saving time ultimately becomes permanent remains uncertain. For now, Americans will once again move their clocks forward this Sunday and adjust to an hour less sleep as the days gradually grow longer.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com