House Passes Permanent Daylight Saving Time Bill 308-117 on July 15

The U.S. House overwhelmingly passed the Sunshine Protection Act on July 14 with a 308-117 vote, advancing President Trump’s push to end the twice-yearly clock changes that affect most Americans. The bill would keep the country on daylight saving time year-round, eliminating the November and March transitions. The Senate now holds the bill’s fate, but multiple lawmakers from both parties have already signaled opposition.

What the House bill does

The Sunshine Protection Act would put the entire United States on the time currently observed from March to November, eliminating the need to change clocks twice yearly. States could opt out by adopting permanent standard time before the law takes effect. Rep. Vern Buchanan of Florida sponsored the bill, which passed with bipartisan support. Supporters argue the change would eliminate disruptions to sleep, reduce workplace injuries, and boost evening economic activity during winter months.

Senate opposition threatens passage

Despite the lopsided House vote, the bill faces significant headwinds in the upper chamber. Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and a dozen other senators on the Senate Commerce Committee have previously voted against permanent daylight saving time. Cotton argues that winter sunrises would occur as late as 9 a.m. in some regions, forcing children and workers to commute in darkness. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a South Dakota Republican who previously opposed the measure, said Wednesday he remains uncertain about bringing it to a vote.

Critics cite health and safety risks

Opponents warn that permanent daylight saving time would push winter sunrises to dangerously late hours. Cotton stated that early morning darkness would deprive Americans of essential morning sunshine needed for safety and well-being. A senior Capitol Hill aide confirmed Cotton maintains the same concerns he raised when the Senate version stalled last October. The aide noted that senators on both sides of the aisle have opposed the measure in committee.

What happens if the Senate passes it

If the Senate approves the bill and President Trump signs it, Americans would stop changing clocks in November 2026 and beyond. The next scheduled clock change remains on the calendar for early November unless Congress completes action before then. Nineteen states have already passed legislation to adopt permanent daylight saving time, pending federal approval. Hawaii and Arizona currently observe permanent standard time year-round and would not be forced to change under the bill.

Final Thoughts

The House victory masks a difficult Senate path. With Majority Leader Thune uncommitted and Cotton leading bipartisan opposition, the Sunshine Protection Act faces a filibuster-proof 60-vote hurdle. Americans should expect the November 2026 clock change to proceed unless the Senate acts quickly.

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