Every year, Americans change their clocks twice for daylight saving time. Many people find this practice disruptive and unnecessary. In 2021, Georgia passed a law to make daylight saving time permanent. Governor Brian Kemp signed the legislation with strong support. However, Georgia residents still change their clocks today.
The reason is connected to federal law. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 controls how states observe time. States may choose to stay on standard time all year. However, no state can adopt permanent daylight saving time alone. Congress must first change the federal law for this to happen.
Health research supports ending the clock changes. Studies have shown that the spring time shift increases heart attacks. Fatal traffic accidents also rise after the transition. Sleep disruption affects mood, energy, and overall well-being. The American Heart Association has reported these concerns publicly.
Nineteen states have now passed similar legislation across the country. A federal bill called the Sunshine Protection Act has been proposed. If Congress approved it, these states could finally stop changing clocks. The debate continues, and public opinion generally favours the change. Until federal action is taken, the clocks will keep moving.
