In recent legislative sessions, Texas lawmakers have actively pursued measures to eliminate the practice of changing clocks twice a year for Daylight Saving Time (DST). This initiative seeks to establish a consistent time standard year-round, aiming to enhance public health, safety, and economic productivity.
Legislative Initiatives in Texas
In the 2023 legislative session, the Texas House overwhelmingly passed House Bill 1422, introduced by Representative Will Metcalf (R-Conroe), with a vote of 138-5. The bill proposed that Texas observe DST throughout the year, eliminating the biannual clock changes. However, the legislation faced challenges in the Senate and did not progress further.
In the current 2025 session, multiple bills have been introduced to address the issue:
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Senate Bill 64: Filed by State Senator Judith Zaffirini (D-Laredo), this bill proposes that Texas remain on standard time year-round, citing concerns about the health and safety impacts of time changes.
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Senate Bill 692: Introduced by State Senator Mayes Middleton (R-Galveston), this legislation aims to keep Texas on DST throughout the year.
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House Bills 1733 and 1736: Filed by State Representatives Briscoe Cain (R-Deer Park) and Pat Curry (R-Waco), respectively, these companion bills seek to establish permanent DST in Texas.
Despite these efforts, any change to permanent DST would require an act of Congress, as federal law currently mandates uniform time observance across states. States can exempt themselves from observing DST, remaining on standard time year-round, but cannot independently adopt permanent DST without federal approval.
Public Opinion and National Context
Public sentiment in Texas favors ending the practice of changing clocks. Polls indicate that approximately 70% of Texans support legislation to abolish DST. This sentiment aligns with national discussions, where the Sunshine Protection Act has been introduced in Congress, aiming to make DST permanent nationwide. The U.S. Senate passed similar legislation in 2022, but the House did not act on it.
Health, Safety, and Economic Considerations
Proponents of permanent DST argue that eliminating time changes would reduce health risks associated with disrupted sleep patterns, such as increased rates of heart attacks and strokes. They also suggest that extended evening daylight could boost economic activities by encouraging outdoor events and shopping. However, critics warn that permanent DST could lead to darker mornings, potentially affecting school start times and morning commutes. Additionally, industries reliant on morning daylight, such as agriculture, express concerns about the impact on productivity.
Conclusion
The debate over Daylight Saving Time in Texas reflects a broader national conversation about the benefits and drawbacks of time changes. While legislative efforts continue at both state and federal levels to address this issue, any significant changes will require careful consideration of health, safety, economic, and logistical factors. As discussions progress, it remains to be seen whether Texas will join the ranks of states opting for permanent standard time or year-round DST.
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