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Bill

SB 5001

Implementing year-round Pacific standard time.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Chapman and 8 co-sponsors

Washington would adopt permanent Pacific Standard Time year-round, eliminating seasonal clock changes but requiring federal approval and creating potential coordination issues with neighboring states.

First reading, referred to State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections.
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Bill Summary · SB 5001

Legislative bill overview

SB 5001 proposes to establish Pacific Standard Time (PST) as Washington State's permanent year-round time, eliminating the practice of switching between PST and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) annually. This would require federal approval under the Uniform Time Act, which allows states to remain on standard time permanently but not on daylight saving time year-round.

Why is this important

The permanent time change would affect sleep patterns, work schedules, school timing, and business operations for all Washington residents and businesses. This intersects with broader national debates about daylight saving time's health impacts, with proponents citing reduced seasonal depression and consistent routines, while opponents worry about darker winter mornings affecting school and commute safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal compliance: Washington cannot unilaterally adopt year-round PDT without federal action, but can adopt permanent PST; this bill's language should clarify the distinction
  • Economic and social coordination: Neighboring states Oregon and Idaho have different time policies, creating potential complications for cross-border business, transportation, and scheduling
  • Morning darkness in winter: Permanent PST means sunrises around 8:30 AM in December, raising concerns about school safety and student alertness during morning classes
  • Bipartisan but potentially contentious: The four-sponsor group includes both Democrats and Republicans, suggesting possible cross-party disagreement on specifics

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

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