On Friday, July 17th, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Sunshine Protection Act with a vote of 308-117. The bill seeks to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, eliminating the need for Americans to adjust their clocks twice a year.

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), a chief sponsor of the legislation, described the bill as "simply a solution to make Daylight Saving Time permanent." He emphasized that the twice-yearly clock change is "a relic of the past that no longer reflects the way Americans live."

The change would mean that the amount of daylight experienced at 7 p.m. under Daylight Saving Time would be similar to what is currently experienced at 6 p.m. under Standard Time. Supporters argue this adjustment better aligns with modern lifestyles and reduces the disruption caused by clock changes.

Residents in states like Tennessee have expressed support, noting that early darkness in the fall, sometimes as early as 5 p.m., can be depressing. "People in Tennessee wanted it gone. It's ridiculous," one supporter said.

Currently, Washington, D.C. experiences its longest day in June with nearly 15 hours of daylight and the shortest near the winter solstice with just under 9.5 hours.

If the Sunshine Protection Act becomes law, the U.S. would remain on Daylight Saving Time year-round.

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