As the U.S. approaches the end of daylight saving time on November 2, 2025, many states are actively debating whether to make daylight saving time permanent or stay on standard time year-round.

The first federal law establishing daylight saving time was enacted in 1918 but was repealed in 1919; since then, efforts like the Sunshine Protection Act have repeatedly been introduced but have yet to become law.

Supporters argue that permanent daylight saving time could save energy, reduce crime, and extend evening activity, while opponents, including many parents, worry about children going to school in darkness during winter.

Public opinion remains divided, with concerns about darker winter mornings and safety issues, although about 30 states have considered or passed legislation to eliminate the biannual clock changes since 2015.

If permanent daylight saving time is adopted, mornings in winter would be darker, with sunrise after 8 a.m. from late October to early March, and after 9 a.m. for about 17 days, impacting children’s school routines.

Research indicates that the biannual clock changes disrupt circadian rhythms, increasing health risks such as strokes, heart attacks, and obesity, with some studies suggesting permanent DST could prevent hundreds of thousands of strokes annually.

Throughout October 2025, residents will experience about 80 minutes less daylight each day, leading to darker evenings, and sunset in California will occur at 5:04 p.m. as days grow shorter.

To ease the transition, experts recommend gradually adjusting sleep schedules by 15-minute increments before the time change and increasing morning sunlight exposure.

Historically, the U.S. has experimented with year-round daylight saving time during wartime and energy crises, but these measures were temporary; currently, the practice involves adjusting clocks twice a year.

The upcoming winter solstice on December 21, 2025, will be the shortest day of the year, with sunset at 4:48 p.m. and about five hours and 24 minutes less daylight compared to the summer solstice.

Despite ongoing legislative efforts, clocks will still be set back on November 2, 2025, as no final federal decision has been made to abolish the biannual time change.

The debate over daylight saving time is complex, involving health, safety, energy, and lifestyle considerations, with many bills at the state level still pending or in committees.