Maryland Could End Clock Changes After House Passes Daylight Saving Time Bill

WASHINGTON — On July 14, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act, according to Congress, a measure that would give states the power to adopt Daylight Saving Time year-round and end the twice-a-year clock change that has been in place for generations. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it must be approved before any state can act.

The legislation would allow states to remain on permanent Daylight Saving Time (DST), keeping later sunsets throughout the winter months. Under current federal law, states may opt out of DST and stay on Standard Time, but they cannot choose to stay on DST permanently without congressional authorization.

Supporters of the bill argue that eliminating the biannual time change could reduce health risks associated with disrupted sleep cycles, improve evening public safety and benefit businesses that rely on after-work activity. Critics say darker winter mornings could pose hazards for schoolchildren and commuters, while some medical and sleep organizations have said Standard Time may be the healthier year-round option.

If the Senate approves the measure and it becomes law, states would be able to decide individually whether to adopt permanent DST or continue switching clocks each March and November. Several states have previously passed laws expressing interest in permanent DST, but none could take effect without federal approval.

Maryland is among the states that have periodically debated the issue. Lawmakers have introduced bills in past sessions to explore permanent DST or regional time-change agreements, though none ultimately advanced, in part because of federal restrictions. If Congress lifts those restrictions, Maryland legislators could revisit the question during a future General Assembly session.

For now, nothing changes for residents. The Senate must still vote on the Sunshine Protection Act, and the president would need to sign it before states gain the authority to make any adjustments. Until then, the nation will continue following the current federal schedule — moving clocks forward in March and back again in November.

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