Following the U.S. House of Representatives’ approval of the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, Congressman Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) celebrated the measure's approval, expressing gratitude to “both sides of the aisle for supporting this bipartisan effort.”
The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Buchanan, was overwhelmingly approved by a vote of 308-117, with 88% of Republicans voting in favor. Democrats, on the other hand, were divided, as only 55% approved the measure.
“This commonsense legislation reflects what Americans have been saying for years: it’s time to lock the clock and make daylight saving time permanent,” Congressman Buchanan affirmed, praising the chamber for taking an “important step toward ending the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year.”
Several State Reps Oppose the Bill
Opponents of the legislation, such as lawmakers representing the Midwest and agriculture-heavy states, argue that the bill could lead to “unhealthy, dark winter mornings.” Dissenters also believe that the bill was expedited without proper debate.
The Sunshine Protection Act, however, does stipulate that states can opt out of the measure’s effort “in favor of permanent standard time if opt out legislation is passed through their respective state legislatures.”
“States can do so right up until the bill’s enactment,” Rep. Buchanan’s press release on the matter confirms.
DST Reportedly Promotes Better Lifestyles
“Permanent daylight saving time will improve public safety, promote healthier and more active lifestyles and give families more daylight to enjoy after work and school. I’m grateful to my colleagues... and I urge the Senate to send this long-overdue reform to the president’s desk," Congressman Buchanan stated.
Florida's DST Switch
Many states have already opted out of the current daylight-saving system (DST), including Arizona, Hawaii, and Florida.
In 2018, Florida became the first state in the country to adopt permanent DST after a 103-11 vote in the state legislature.
Bill Moves to The Senate
The legislation is now set to head to the U.S. Senate, where Florida Senator Rick Scott has also introduced a companion bill that has amassed 18 bipartisan cosponsors.
