Daylight Saving Time Begins This Weekend

Ahead of Daylight Saving Time, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) reintroduced the Sunshine Protection Act of 2023 for the 118th Congress. U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) introduced companion legislation in the House. The legislation would end the antiquated practice of changing clocks twice a year, which we will do again this weekend.

Daylight Saving Time (DST) was enacted in the United States following Germany’s 1916 effort to conserve fuel during World War I, and its period of observance has since been lengthened. Originally mandated for six months, in 2005, Congress extended DST to begin the second Sunday in March and end the first Sunday in November. As a result, the United States now enjoys EIGHT months of DST, and only four months of standard time (November-March). The United States has also gone through periods of year – round DST, including 1942-1945 and 1974-1975.

Not only does it seem outdated, but during the week after the shift to DST, research shows an associated rise in Cardiovascular disease, with a 24% higher risk of heart attacks; and Injuries, including a 6% spike in fatal car accidents.

Medical researchers also say the time change can have long-term health effects. Studies show the practice is linked to Depression, Slowed metabolism, Weight gain, and Cluster headaches. Changing the time has been linked to increased risk of developing certain disorders, from cognitive and mental health issues to digestive and heart diseases. And, if you already have these conditions, doctors say resetting the time can make them worse.

Leading up to and during DST, experts say you can help protect your circadian rhythm by keeping a sleep routine and eliminating sleep disturbances.

Since the Sunshine Act still has not been passed into federal law, in the meantime, don’t forget to set your manual clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night.