Experts Advocate for Standard Time Over Permanent Daylight Saving Time

The ongoing discussion regarding the potential shift to permanent daylight saving time has gained momentum recently, with sleep experts voicing serious concerns about its impact on health and safety. A significant bipartisan vote in the House, which passed the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, suggests a change may be coming, but specialists urge caution.

The Case for Standard Time

Prominent organizations like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) are advocating for a return to standard time. They argue that seasonal changes can adversely affect our internal biological clocks. Permanent daylight saving time, according to experts, disrupts our natural rhythms by causing misalignment with the sun's cycle.

Dr. Muhammad Adeel Rishi, a leading expert in sleep medicine, stated, "Daylight saving time increases risks to our physical health, mental well-being, and public safety."

A position statement from the AASM conveyed similar sentiments, indicating that aligning our clocks with sunrise and sunset promotes healthier sleep patterns, which are essential for our overall well-being. The organization highlights research linking the clock change in spring to higher occurrences of cardiovascular issues, mood disorders, and traffic accidents.

Consequences of Later Sunrises

One main concern with the idea of adopting permanent daylight saving time is the significant shift in sunrise times, especially during winter months. This change could lead to some people starting their day in the dark, particularly impacting commuters and children on their way to school.

Experts like Robert Satriale, a sleep specialist at Temple Health, emphasize that early darkness can enhance sleep quality. The timing of light exposure plays a vital role in regulating our natural sleep cycles, and delaying sunrises may disrupt this balance, leading to later sleep onset and reduced alertness during the day.

Rabih Loutfi, medical director at the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Sleep Lab, noted, "We recommend sticking with standard time to avoid disruption, especially for children and those struggling with sleep issues."

Safety Concerns from Time Changes

Research has raised alarms about the safety risks associated with seasonal clock changes. An 18% spike in adverse medical events due to human error was noted in the week following the spring transition. Furthermore, the AASM acknowledged studies indicating increased traffic fatalities by up to 6% shortly after the switch to daylight saving time.

The research highlights an urgent need to take seriously the implications of time changes, particularly how they may pose immediate safety risks for the public during transition periods.

Public Opinion Shifts

A Gallup poll conducted in January 2025 revealed that a majority of Americans (54%) do not favor daylight saving time anymore, a considerable shift compared to previous years when support was much higher. Among respondents, 48% preferred sticking with standard time, in contrast to only 24% for permanent daylight saving time.

The changing sentiments reflect a growing awareness of the potential issues surrounding the clock adjustment, pushing experts and advocates to push for maintaining a system that better correlates with natural light conditions.

The Future of Time Legislation

As the Sunshine Protection Act awaits a decision from the Senate, its future remains unclear. Another proposal, the Sunshine for Our Kids Act of 2026, seeks to establish permanent standard time while giving states the option to adopt daylight saving time if desired. This legislative back-and-forth leaves crucial decisions surrounding the U.S. time system unresolved.

With expert opinions advocating for the health benefits of standard time, all eyes are on lawmakers to make a decision that aligns with the well-being of Americans.