Karmactive Staff
In a move that could affect millions of Americans, President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to eliminate Daylight Saving Time (DST), labeling it “inconvenient” and “very costly to our Nation.” The proposal, shared on Truth Social, marks another addition to his agenda focused on government streamlining.
Economic and Health Implications
Studies have shown DST can have adverse economic impacts. Prof. Joan Costa-i-Font from the London School of Economics quantifies the potential benefit, stating that “We calculated the costs of each of these impacts, and weighed them up against any known benefits of the DST. Our cost-benefit analysis reveals that ending DST would be associated with welfare gains equivalent to an income gain of roughly 754 euros per capita per year.”
Medical experts present compelling evidence against the current system. The American Medical Association and American Academy of Sleep Medicine advocate for permanent standard time, noting its better alignment with human biology and natural sunlight patterns. Research shows DST transitions increase risks of heart attacks and strokes due to sleep pattern disruption.
Political Landscape and Legislative History
The initiative has gained support from key figures in Trump’s proposed administration. Elon Musk termed DST “annoying,” while Vivek Ramaswamy described it as “inefficient and easy to change.” Trump has tapped them to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency tasked with evaluating and recommending the elimination of DST.
Senator Marco Rubio, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State, previously sponsored the Sunshine Protection Act in 2022. “Changing the clock twice a year is outdated and unnecessary,” stated Florida Senator Rick Scott during the Senate vote. Despite passing the Senate, the bill stalled in the House.
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Historical Context and Current Practice
DST was first adopted in the U.S. during World War I in 1918 as a fuel conservation measure. It was repealed after the war but returned during World War II. The Uniform Time Act was passed in 1966, though states retained the option to opt out. Currently, Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe DST.
A Monmouth University Poll reveals approximately two-thirds of Americans support making DST permanent, indicating public readiness for change. Mexico ended the practice in 2022, maintaining it only in U.S. border regions for economic reasons. Turkey and Russia have implemented permanent DST in the past decade.
Implementation Challenges
The transition presents logistical hurdles. Most U.S. states currently adjust their clocks in March and November. Any change would require congressional approval and careful consideration of various stakeholder interests, from parents concerned about children’s safety during dark morning commutes to businesses preferring extended evening daylight for economic activity.
As this decades-old practice faces scrutiny, the outcome remains uncertain. The proposal’s success depends on legislative support and public adaptation to potential changes in daily routines across American communities.
