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HB 45

Daylight saving time; observe year-round if federal law is amended to allow it.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Becky Currie

Mississippi would adopt permanent daylight saving time if federal law allows it, pending federal authorization to implement year-round daylight time observance.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 45

Legislative bill overview

HB 45 would authorize Mississippi to observe daylight saving time year-round (permanent daylight time) if and when federal law is amended to permit it. Currently, the Uniform Time Act of 1966 allows states to opt out of daylight saving time but generally prohibits year-round daylight time observance. The bill is conditional legislation that would only take effect upon federal authorization.

Why is this important

This addresses ongoing debate about daylight saving time's practical effects. Proponents argue permanent daylight time provides more evening daylight for commerce, recreation, and safety, while critics worry about darker winter mornings affecting school commutes, circadian rhythms, and energy consumption. The bill reflects a national trend of states seeking flexibility in timekeeping—a growing issue as multiple states explore similar measures pending federal action.

Potential points of contention

  • Health and safety concerns: Research shows mixed results on permanent daylight time's effects on sleep patterns, traffic safety, and seasonal depression, with some studies suggesting more harm than benefit
  • Federal dependency: The bill's effectiveness depends entirely on federal action, making it potentially symbolic legislation with no immediate practical effect
  • Disruption costs: Changing timekeeping systems affects infrastructure, business operations, and interstate coordination, with unclear net economic benefit for Mississippi specifically

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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