WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today voted in favor of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, legislation that would end the twice-yearly clock changes by making Daylight Saving Time permanent. The proposal has enjoyed broad bipartisan support among the American public for years, as many Americans have grown tired of changing their clocks every spring and fall.
“The twice-a-year time change has long been a source of frustration for families, businesses, and workers across the country,” said Congressman Aderholt. “I’ve heard from many constituents who simply want to pick one time and stick with it. The Sunshine Protection Act accomplishes that by providing consistency throughout the year.”
While supporting the legislation, Aderholt noted that permanent Daylight Saving Time presents unique challenges for communities in North Alabama, particularly during the winter months.
“One concern I do have is the impact on school children,” Aderholt said. “In December and January, permanent Daylight Saving Time would mean the sun would not rise until nearly 8:00 a.m. in much of North Alabama. That means many students would be standing at bus stops or walking to school before sunrise. As a father and soon-to-be grandfather, that’s something I take seriously.”
Aderholt said he hopes school systems, local communities, and state leaders will work together to minimize those concerns should the legislation become law.
“I believe we can enjoy the benefits of ending the clock changes while also making sure student safety remains a priority,” Aderholt continued. “Whether that means reviewing bus schedules, adjusting school start times where practical, or identifying other commonsense solutions, we should make every effort to ensure children are not routinely waiting for the bus in the dark.”
Supporters of the Sunshine Protection Act cite the benefits of eliminating the disruptive seasonal clock changes, including greater consistency for families, commerce, and travel, as well as more daylight during evening hours. The legislation has advanced with bipartisan support in Congress and has been the subject of public debate for several years.
“Like many Americans, I believe it’s time to end the twice-yearly ritual of changing our clocks,” Aderholt said. “As we move forward, we’ll continue working to ensure the transition is implemented in a way that best serves families here in Alabama.”
HISTORY OF SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT
The Sunshine Protection Act is a bipartisan legislative push aimed at making daylight saving time (DST) permanent year-round, thereby ending the twice-yearly practice of changing clocks. If enacted, Americans would no longer “spring forward” or “fall back,” shifting an hour of sunlight from the early morning to the evening.
The measure has advanced with significant momentum, passing the U.S. House of Representatives in a 308-to-117 vote. The legislation currently faces the next step in the U.S. Senate, where its future remains uncertain as it awaits further action. President Donald Trump has actively championed the effort, stating he will sign the bill into law if it reaches his desk.
Media Release/Office of Alabama Congressman Robert Aderholt
