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HR 139

Sunshine Protection Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Tom Barrett and 32 co-sponsors

The Sunshine Protection Act of 2025 aims to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, enhancing public safety and boosting economic activity with longer evening daylight.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 139

Summary of HR 139 - Sunshine Protection Act of 2025

Overview

The Sunshine Protection Act of 2025 (HR 139) is a legislative proposal aimed at making Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent across the United States. Introduced on January 3, 2025, the bill seeks to eliminate the biannual clock changes that occur in March and November, thereby providing more consistent daylight hours throughout the year.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of the Sunshine Protection Act is to enhance public safety, improve mental health, and boost economic activity by maintaining longer daylight hours in the evenings. Proponents argue that permanent DST can lead to reduced crime rates, increased outdoor activities, and overall better quality of life for citizens.

Key Provisions

  • Permanent Daylight Saving Time: The bill proposes that the United States will observe Daylight Saving Time year-round, eliminating the need to revert to Standard Time.
  • Implementation: If passed, the changes would take effect on the second Sunday in March 2026, aligning with the current start of Daylight Saving Time.
  • State Authority: States will retain the authority to opt-out of the permanent DST if they choose to remain on Standard Time.

Affected Parties

  • General Public: Citizens will benefit from extended daylight hours in the evening, which may encourage more outdoor activities and social interactions.
  • Businesses: Retailers and service industries may see increased sales due to longer shopping hours and more consumer activity during daylight.
  • Health and Safety Organizations: Groups focused on public health and safety may support the bill, citing potential reductions in accidents and health issues related to seasonal time changes.

Legislative Process

  • Current Status: The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on the same day, January 3, 2025.
  • Cosponsors: The bill has garnered support from a diverse group of cosponsors, including notable representatives such as Vern Buchanan (primary sponsor) and Daniel Webster. A total of 27 cosponsors have signed on to support the bill.

Related Legislation

  • S 29: A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate, indicating bipartisan interest in the proposal and potential for concurrent legislative action.

Conclusion

The Sunshine Protection Act of 2025 aims to provide a permanent solution to the biannual clock changes associated with Daylight Saving Time. By making DST permanent, the bill seeks to enhance the quality of life for Americans through increased daylight, with potential benefits for public health, safety, and economic activity. As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications will be closely monitored by various stakeholders.

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

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