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Bill

HJR 62

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring this state to observe daylight saving time year-round.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mike Schofield

Texas proposes constitutional amendment for permanent daylight saving time year-round, requiring voter approval and potentially conflicting with federal law.

Referred to State Affairs
#daylightsavingtime(i0210) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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Bill Summary · HJR 62

Legislative bill overview

HJR 62 proposes a constitutional amendment that would require Texas to permanently observe daylight saving time (DST) year-round, eliminating the practice of "falling back" to standard time each autumn. This would require voter approval through a statewide referendum to amend the Texas Constitution.

Why is this important

Texas currently observes DST from March to November, shifting clocks twice annually. A permanent DST adoption would affect sleep schedules, business operations, school start times, and energy consumption patterns for all 30+ million Texans. The change also has federal implications—Congress allows states to observe permanent standard time but generally prohibits permanent DST without federal legislation, creating potential legal complications.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal law conflict: The Uniform Time Act permits permanent standard time but not permanent DST. Texas would likely need federal congressional approval, which is uncertain and not guaranteed.
  • Health and safety concerns: Medical research shows permanent DST may increase heart attacks, traffic accidents, and sleep disruption, particularly affecting children and shift workers.
  • Daylight distribution: Permanent DST means darker winter mornings (sunrise as late as 8:30 a.m. in far west Texas), potentially affecting school bus safety and student alertness during winter months.
  • Business coordination: Texas interstate commerce with states observing standard time could create scheduling complications for transportation, banking, and telecommunications.

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

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