A member of Alabama’s congressional delegation is spearheading efforts in Congress to make Daylight Saving Time year-round.
U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) has introduced legislation to pave the way for Americans’ clocks to be permanently advanced an hour, presently reserved for only the nation’s warmer months.
In announcing his legislation, Rogers noted Alabamians’ desires to discontinue the practice of having to fall back an hour during winter.
“Every fall I hear from constituents who ask why we have to change the clocks and wonder what can be done to stop this nuisance,” advised Rogers. “Earlier this year Alabama passed legislation to have year-round Daylight Saving Time but it takes an Act of Congress to allow them to actually make the change.”
Rogers asserted that if Daylight Saving Time were recognized year-round, individuals could experience economic and health benefits as a result.
“This is why I introduced legislation that will allow Alabama to stay on Daylight Saving Time year-round,” the congressman added. “Changing the clocks twice a year is an antiquated practice and studies have shown that year-round Daylight Saving Time has potentially huge benefits for the economy and people’s health. Who doesn’t love a little more sunshine in their day?”
Even though the Alabama Legislature earlier this year passed legislation to make Daylight Saving Time year-round, Congress must take action to allow states to make the reform. The bill authored by Rogers would allow states to make the change to year-round Daylight Saving Time if they opt to do so.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL