On Sunday, March 9th at 2:00 AM, millions of people in the United States will have to set their clocks forward one hour to welcome daylight saving time, also known as Daylight Saving Time (DST). This practice, which has been in force for decades, seeks to make the most of sunlight and will be extended until November 2, 2025. However, not all states are joining the change, and the controversy over its effectiveness or permanence is rekindled every year.
Daylight saving time and its impact on lifestyle in the United States during 2025
Daylight saving time, originally introduced to reduce energy consumption during wartime, has become an important part of Americans’ daily routine. During the months when there is more daylight, the official time is put forward in order to extend the afternoon, allowing for more hours of natural light in the evening.
This measure, in addition to aiming to save energy, promotes a more active lifestyle: many families take advantage of the extra daylight to go for walks, play outdoor sports or do activities with children. However, every year there a re voices that question the real benefits of daylight saving time and bring to the table the drawbacks it entails.
The reasons, state exceptions and the political debate on time change in Florida
One of the main reasons for promoting DST is the supposed energy saving. It is estimated that by reducing the use of artificial light, there is a decrease in electricity consumption. However, states such as Hawaii and territories such as Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands remain on the sidelines of the change, maintaining fixed hours throughout the year.
Arizona also opts out of summer time, except for the Navajo Nation, which follows the rules established in neighboring regions. These exceptions are based on geographical and climatic factors, although political positions also play a decisive role. In Florida, for example, the intention to adopt DST on a permanent basis has caused friction among legislators, who have expressed conflicting positions. Governor Ron DeSantis has defended the idea of continuous daylight saving time, while some legislative sectors are opposed, generating an intense state debate.
What does the future hold for the practice of permanent daylight saving time in the country?
Although several states, such as California, Washington, Utah and Tennessee, have shown interest in maintaining daylight saving time permanently, this initiative requires approval from Congress at the federal level. To date, the bills have not been definitively passed, so the tradition of putting the clocks forward and back twice a year continues.
This time change is carried out in many other parts of the world. Remember that if you would like to see more news about current affairs, visit the corresponding section.
