NewsWFLA News Channel 8August 14, 2026Hillsborough County
Federal lawmakers weigh permanent daylight saving time versus permanent standard time
Photo: WFLA News Channel 8
Congress is currently considering competing bills to establish either permanent daylight saving time or permanent standard time, which would end the practice of changing clocks twice a year. If no action is taken by November 1, the U.S. will continue its current practice of 'falling back' to standard time.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8Why It Matters
The choice between permanent and permanent will change the timing of sunsets and sunrises year-round for all residents, affecting daily schedules and sleep patterns.
Key Facts
- The U.S. is currently observing daylight saving time.
- The Senate is in recess until mid-September, delaying potential action on the Sunshine Protection Act.
- If no legislative change occurs, clocks will 'fall back' to standard time on November 1.
- Permanent daylight saving time would shift summer sunsets earlier than they currently occur.
- Permanent standard time would significantly reduce the number of summer evenings with sunsets after 8 p.m. in many cities.
- Hawaii and most of Arizona currently observe permanent standard time.
- Experts suggest morning sunlight exposure is beneficial for the human melatonin system.
- 33 cities were analyzed regarding the timing of their final 8 p.m. sunset of the year.
- 10 of the analyzed cities have already experienced their final 8 p.m. sunset for the year.