Montana Clock Change Debate Heats Up in Congress

For years now, people across Montana have debated whether it’s finally time to stop changing the clocks twice a year. Montana lawmakers have already passed legislation saying the state would stay on permanent Daylight Saving Time if enough neighboring western states agree to do the same.

Montana’s Push for Permanent Daylight Saving Time

Now, momentum may be building again at the national level.

This week, a new movement in Congress has brought the issue back into the spotlight after Republicans in a House Committee advanced language tied to the Sunshine Protection Act, a proposal that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent across the United States.

The renewed push comes shortly after news that British Columbia is also moving toward ending seasonal clock changes. If that happens, there would be parts of the year when Montana and B.C. would remain on the same time schedule.

National Momentum for the Sunshine Protection Act

Last year, Sen. Rick Scott and Rep. Vern Buchanan, both from Florida, reintroduced the Sunshine Protection Act with bipartisan support. The proposal previously advanced through committee hearings, although an earlier Senate attempt to fast-track the bill ultimately stalled.

Now, supporters say the effort is gaining traction again.

According to The Hill, Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee confirmed that Buchanan’s proposal would receive a full markup as part of the Motor Vehicle Modernization Act.

Buchanan said in a statement that he was proud to see the bill move forward, calling seasonal clock changes “outdated and unpopular.” If passed, the legislation would permanently keep clocks set to the time observed from March through November, meaning no more “fall back” every autumn.

The Debate: Pros and Cons of Permanent Daylight Saving Time

For Montana, the issue has been especially important because of the state’s long winter nights and early sunsets. Supporters of permanent Daylight Saving Time argue that keeping more daylight in the evening would benefit businesses, tourism, outdoor recreation, and even mental health during the darker winter months.

Others still prefer permanent Standard Time, arguing that darker winter mornings could create concerns for school kids, commuters, and people driving in icy conditions.

There are debates and studies on which is better, keeping time in Daylight Saving Time or keeping Standard Time. But a majority of studies agree that changing the clocks twice a year isn't good for the majority of people's health.