Should We Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent? Let’s Sleep on It

Daylight saving time would be permanent across the country under a bill passed by the U.S. Senate. The Senate passed the measure unanimously, signaling strong legislative support, even though the House of Representatives would need to approve it for it to become law.

Scientists are not as enthusiastic about the idea. Our wakefulness is linked to the solar cycle. The use of standard time is preferred by many sleep researchers. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine issued a statement on the same day that the bill was passed. We call on the House to take more time to assess the potential ramifications of establishing permanent daylight saving time before making such an important decision that will affect all Americans.