Florida made headlines in 2018 when its legislature passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time (DST) permanent—no more springing forward or falling back. Even Governor Rick Scott signed it into state law.
But—despite the state’s approval—it hasn’t gone into effect. Here’s why, plus what research says about why people are eager for a change.
Why Florida Can’t Just Lock the Clocks
- Federal Law Restricts It
Under the U.S. Uniform Time Act (since 1966), states are allowed to opt out of daylight saving time (and stick with standard time year-round), but they are not permitted to make daylight saving time permanent unless Congress changes the law. Florida’s law hinges on that federal approval. - Sunrise / Safety Concerns
One big worry: in the winter months, permanent DST means very dark mornings. Children waiting for school buses, early commuters—these are safety and practical concerns. Some parents, educators, and public safety officials have pushed back on how late the sun would rise under year-round DST. - Legislative & Political Hurdles
Even though Florida passed its law and there is support at the state level, Congress must act. Bills like the “Sunshine Protection Act” have been introduced in Congress, with bipartisan sponsorship. In 2022, the Senate passed one version, but it never became law—Congress has to amend federal time law to allow states to follow DST permanently.
Health Risks & Statistics: What the Research Shows
The push to eliminate semi-annual clock changes isn’t just about convenience. Several studies show that the transitions (especially in spring) carry health costs:
- Heart attacks increase by about 24% on the Monday after clocks spring forward.
- Stroke incidence goes up—around 8% in the two days after the spring shift.
- Fatal car accidents rise roughly 6% in the week following the time change.
- Sleep loss, mood disturbances, increased risk of chronic conditions—diabetes, cardiovascular disease, anxiety and depression—are linked with both the clock shift itself and the ongoing circadian mismatch.
What This Means
If Florida were able to make DST permanent, benefits could include:
- Fewer health shocks in spring (fewer heart attacks, fewer accidents, less sleep disruption).
- More evening daylight for recreation, possibly boosting mood, physical activity, and local business.
On the flip side:
- Darker winter mornings could pose safety risks and make early routines challenging.
- Not all health experts agree that permanent DST is the best path—many promote permanent standard time as more in sync with human circadian rhythms.
So, Hit Snooze or Change?
Even with state laws in place, the clocks won’t change for good until federal law changes. For now, Floridians must still “spring forward / fall back” twice a year.
What Do You Think?
- Is passing Florida’s Sunshine Protection Act a good precedent—do you support permanent daylight saving time?
- Would you want this in your neighborhood? What trade-offs would you accept (e.g. darker mornings vs. lighter evenings)?