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As a new presidential administration takes office, momentum is growing to end seasonal time changes, with sleep experts urging policymakers to adopt permanent standard time. President Donald Trump recently voiced his support for ending daylight saving time, sparking renewed attention on the issue. The Coalition for Permanent Standard Time, which includes the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), is calling for an end to the biannual clock adjustment and the adoption of permanent standard time, which better aligns with science and prioritizes public health, safety, and efficiency.
The public is also increasingly in favor of this shift, as evidenced by a recent AASM survey. It revealed that half (50%) of Americans support legislation to eliminate seasonal time changes, with only one-fourth (26%) opposed.
“The switch to daylight saving time in the spring may seem harmless, but the reality is far more complicated,” said Jay Pea, co-chair of the Coalition and president of Save Standard Time. “It disrupts our body clocks, affects our sleep quality, and increases the risk of avoidable health and safety incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, cardiovascular events, and even workplace errors in the days following the time change. Adopting permanent standard time, on the other hand, offers a better solution for year-round well-being.”
Why Standard Time is the Healthier Choice
Standard time more closely aligns with our body’s natural circadian rhythms, which regulate our sleep-wake cycles. It provides more sunlight in the morning, helping individuals wake up and feel alert. As evenings gradually darken earlier, it signals to our bodies that it’s time to wind down, encouraging consistent, restful sleep. In contrast, daylight saving time, with its prolonged evening light exposure, can delay bedtime, disrupting sleep patterns. Additionally, if daylight saving time were made permanent, the increased morning darkness, especially in the winter months, could lead to unsafe conditions for commuters and children heading to school.
“We’ve tried permanent daylight saving time before, and it didn’t work,” Pea pointed out. “This time, let’s get it right by prioritizing health and safety with permanent standard time.”
Tips for Transitioning to Daylight Saving Time
With the upcoming transition to daylight saving time on March 9, the AASM is offering tips to minimize the disruption:
- Aim for at least seven hours of sleep both before and after the time change. A consistent sleep routine is key.
- Gradually adjust your bedtime and wake-up time by 15-20 minutes earlier each night in the days leading up to the time change.
- Modify the timing of daily routines, such as mealtimes or exercise, which serve as “time cues” for your body.
- Set offline clocks ahead one hour on the evening of Saturday, March 8, and go to bed at your usual time. Online clocks will adjust automatically at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9.
- Spend time outdoors for early morning sunlight in the week following the time change. Bright light exposure helps reset your internal clock, supporting sleep and alertness.
For more information on daylight saving time and to access additional resources on sleep health, visit SleepEducation.org.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for concerns regarding sleep disorders and health.
