The U.S. House of Representatives has taken a notable step toward ending the twice‑annual clock change that most Tennesseans live with. On July 14, lawmakers passed the Sunshine Protection Act, a bipartisan proposal that would allow states to observe daylight saving time year‑round rather than switching clocks twice a year.
What the bill would do
Under the legislation, states would be permitted to adopt permanent daylight saving time but would also retain the option to opt out. Tennessee currently follows the national practice of changing clocks in spring and fall, like most states. The bill now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain.
"Floridians and Americans across the country are tired of the biannual time change, and the evidence is clear that permanent daylight saving time can improve public health, reduce traffic accidents, lower crime and encourage more outdoor activity," Rep. Vern Buchanan, R‑Fla., said in a statement.
Context and support
The Sunshine Protection Act was introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan and advanced out of committee on July 10 in a 48‑1 vote, according to reports. It has bipartisan backing in the House and the support of former President Donald Trump, who has publicly urged Congress to end the spring and fall clock changes.
Some supporters point to potential benefits such as improved public health, fewer traffic accidents and reduced crime. But public opinion is divided: a 2025 AP‑NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey found 47% of respondents opposed the current system of daylight saving time, while 12% said they were in favor of continued observance of time changes.
What this means for Tennessee
If the bill becomes law and Tennessee lawmakers choose to adopt permanent daylight saving time, residents would no longer set clocks forward in spring or back in fall. Daylight hours in the evening would remain longer year‑round under permanent DST. The change would be optional at the state level — meaning state officials would decide whether to keep the status quo or switch.
- Timeline: House passage on July 14; next step is the Senate.
- Committee vote: 48‑1 on July 10 to advance the bill.
- Public sentiment: Polling shows mixed opinions.
Some similar measures have passed the Senate in the past but did not become law. Notably, a related Senate proposal cleared that chamber in 2022 but failed to reach final enactment. Whether this iteration will progress to the finish line remains unclear.
| State practice | Notes |
|---|---|
| Most U.S. states (including Tennessee) | Observe the twice‑yearly clock change |
| Hawaii | Does not observe daylight saving time |
| Most of Arizona | Does not observe daylight saving time |
For Tennesseans, the issue touches everyday routines — from school start times and business hours to farming, energy use and evening recreation. If the Senate advances the bill, state leaders and local stakeholders will face a practical decision about whether to opt in to permanent daylight saving time.
Reporting from Washington shows momentum in the House, but the policy’s final shape depends on Senate action and, ultimately, the president’s signature. Residents and local officials in Tennessee should watch the Senate calendar and statements from state lawmakers as the next developments unfold.
— Ruby Callahan, Tennessee correspondent
