Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has reintroduced the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act, a bill aimed at ending the twice-yearly clock changes and making Daylight Saving Time (DST) the permanent standard across the United States.
The legislation, which passed unanimously in the Senate during the 117th Congress, has garnered significant bipartisan support and renewed momentum under the leadership of Senator Scott.
Senator Scott first championed the initiative as Florida’s governor in 2018, signing state legislation to keep Florida on DST year-round, pending federal approval.
READ: Florida Court Ruling: Drug-Sniffing Dogs Can’t Justify Searches Based On Marijuana Scent Alone
“Americans are tired of changing their clocks twice a year,” said Senator Rick Scott. “It’s an unnecessary, decades-old practice that no longer benefits families. With President Trump back in the White House and fully on board, I’m confident we can finally ‘lock the clock’ and simplify life for millions of Americans.”
Supporters of the bill argue that making DST permanent would enhance public health, safety, and economic activity while providing more daylight for families to spend time outdoors. Senator Patty Murray noted the strong bipartisan momentum behind the bill, emphasizing its benefits for mental health and community well-being.
“This is about public health, our economy, and putting a little more light in families’ lives,” Senator Murray said. “It’s time for Congress to finally pass permanent Daylight Saving Time into federal law.”
Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), a longtime advocate for daylight-saving reforms, highlighted the positive impacts of brighter evenings on the economy and mental health. “The head-spinning ritual of falling back and springing forward affects our economy and happiness,” he said. “Let’s say goodbye to 4 p.m. winter sunsets.”
READ: Florida Extends Helping Hand To California Amid Devastating Wildfires
Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the overwhelming support he hears from constituents. “Alabamians want more sunshine,” he said. “This bill would end the twice-a-year disruption and bring consistency to our daily lives.”
The legislation addresses frustrations voiced across the country, including those from parents, business owners, and community leaders. Senator James Lankford (R-OK) noted the impact on families, especially those with young children. “Moms dread the time change when clocks shift, but babies’ schedules don’t,” he said. “It’s past time to get this bill to the President’s desk.”
California Senator Alex Padilla added that locking the clock could boost local businesses and improve safety. “More daylight after work means more active and safer California communities,” Padilla said. “Californians voted years ago to lock the clock—Congress must act now.”
READ: Florida Senator Danny Burgess Introduces Grandparent Visitation Rights Bill
The Sunshine Protection Act has received overwhelming public support, reflecting a growing consensus across party lines and regions. With the endorsement of President Trump, the legislation is expected to advance through Congress in the coming months.
“Americans are ready for this change,” said Senator Katie Britt (R-AL). “More sunshine, better mental and physical health, and less disruption—it’s time to lock the clock for good.”
The bill is co-sponsored by a diverse coalition of senators, including Patty Murray (D-WA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rand Paul (R-KY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), James Lankford (R-OK), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Katie Britt (R-AL).
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.