 "Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during a rally for Republican presidential nominee and former US President Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden, in New York, US, October 27, 2024. File Image/Reuters")
The debate surrounding daylight saving time (DST) is back again as Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, both tapped by United States President-elect Donald Trump to co-lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) , have voiced their opposition to the semiannual clock-changing ritual.
Musk, the world’s richest individual, responded to an X user on Wednesday who wished for its abolition, remarking, “Looks like the people want to abolish the annoying time changes!”
Vivek Ramaswamy echoed this sentiment, calling the practice “inefficient & easy to change.”
Musk later expressed his approval of the idea, replying with an enthusiastic “Yes!” to Florida Senator Rick Scott’s advocacy for the Sunshine Protection Act, which seeks to make DST permanent.
Scott, a longtime critic of the practice, stated, “Daylight Saving Time is old, terrible, and needs to go. Pass my Sunshine Protection Act to lock the clock & give everybody more sunshine!”
Despite the support from influential figures, abolishing DST would require Congressional approval and the president’s signature, making its future under the Trump administration uncertain.
What the history of Daylight Saving Time tells us
First officially adopted nationwide under the Uniform Time Act of 1966, DST aims to maximize daylight during warmer months, beginning on the second Sunday in March and ending on the first Sunday in November. Proponents argue that it enhances outdoor activities, conserves energy, and boosts economic activity.
However, these benefits are increasingly questioned. A meta-analysis of 44 studies conducted by Stanford University revealed a mere 0.34 per cent reduction in electricity consumption attributed to DST.
A separate 2008 study by the National Bureau of Economic Research suggested DST might even increase overall energy usage by 1 per cent, largely due to extended use of air conditioning in the evenings.
In addition to energy concerns, health experts warn of serious risks. The American Medical Association has linked the spring-forward adjustment to heightened incidences of heart problems, mood disorders, and car crashes.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advocates for permanent standard time, stating it better aligns with the body’s circadian rhythm and promotes overall well-being.
What Americans want
Polls show mixed public sentiment on the matter. A 2022 Monmouth University survey found that 44 per cent of Americans favour permanent DST, 13 per cent prefer permanent standard time, and 35 per cent support maintaining the current system. Notably, 61 per cent of respondents in another 2022 poll expressed a desire to end DST altogether.
Legislative attempts to address these concerns have repeatedly stalled. In 2022, the Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act to establish permanent DST, but the bill failed to gain traction in the House. Similar bipartisan proposals introduced this year face an uncertain future.
Also Read | Why doctors are calling the UK to abolish its yearly clock-changing system
At the state level, interest in reform is growing. Lawmakers in 30 states have considered DST-related legislation in 2023, noted Forbes.
While federal law prohibits states from unilaterally adopting permanent DST, 19 states, including Colorado, Minnesota, and South Carolina, have enacted conditional laws that would take effect if Congress amends the Uniform Time Act. Meanwhile, states like Arizona and Hawaii, along with US territories such as Puerto Rico and Guam, have opted for permanent standard time.
How a time change affects you
The semiannual clock changes also disrupt daily life. Research shows that the Monday after clocks are set forward in March leads to an average loss of 40 minutes of sleep, contributing to increased workplace injuries and accidents.
Critics argue the practice disrupts natural circadian rhythms, with long-term consequences for physical and mental health.
Also Read | Here’s how DST affects health and how to prepare for it
As the debate continues, Musk’s call for action and Ramaswamy’s push for efficiency may bring renewed momentum to the cause. However, until Congress acts decisively, millions of Americans will continue adjusting their clocks twice a year.
With inputs from agencies