Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is reigniting efforts to end the twice-yearly clock changes by championing the Sunshine Protection Act, a bipartisan proposal to make Daylight Saving Time the permanent, year-round standard in the United States.
In a letter to the editor published in The Wall Street Journal, Scott voiced his support for President Donald Trump’s recent call to “lock the clock” and urged swift legislative action.
Scott’s push follows his efforts as Florida’s governor in 2018, when he signed state legislation to keep Florida on Daylight Saving Time year-round, pending federal approval.
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The Sunshine Protection Act unanimously passed the Senate during the last Congress, and Scott plans to reintroduce the bill in the upcoming 119th Congress.
In his letter, Senator Scott highlighted the widespread frustration Americans feel over the biannual time change. “President-elect Trump is right: Americans are tired of changing their clocks twice a year,” he wrote. Scott emphasized the simplicity and practicality of the proposed change, noting the numerous potential benefits to public health, safety, and the economy.
“This common-sense change will simplify the lives of Americans. The potential benefits are endless; studies show potential for reduced cardiac issues, strokes, seasonal depression, and robberies, as well as benefits to the agricultural and overall economy with an extra hour of sunlight,” Scott wrote.
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The call to make Daylight Saving Time permanent has gained significant momentum in recent years, with widespread public support and bipartisan backing in Congress. Advocates argue that the change would reduce disruptions to sleep patterns, enhance productivity, and contribute to improved mental and physical health.
Scott’s legislation also aligns with increasing calls from state governments. Several states, including Florida, have passed resolutions or laws supporting the move, though federal approval is required for any state to implement Daylight Saving Time year-round.
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The Sunshine Protection Act aims to modernize what Scott calls a “century-old tradition” that he says now brings “families more annoyance than benefit.” The senator urged Congress to prioritize the legislation, citing the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on American life.
“The U.S. government should be reflective of the American people of today, not stuck on a century-old tradition,” Scott wrote. “Let’s pass the Sunshine Protection Act as soon as possible and finally lock the clock.”
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