As we approach spring, it’s important to prepare for the upcoming Daylight Saving Time. This year’s transition will occur at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026. At this moment, clocks will “spring forward” one hour. This change provides an additional hour of sunlight in the evening for many residents in the United States.
Understanding Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time (DST) occurs annually on the second Sunday of March and concludes on the first Sunday of November. This practice allows people to enjoy longer daylight during the warmer months.
Historical Background
- First adopted in the U.S. officially in 1966.
- Legislated by the Uniform Time Act of 1966.
- Extended in 2005 by The Energy Policy Act, shifting the start from April to March.
Spring Forward and Fall Back
Each March, Americans set their clocks ahead one hour, while in November, they revert back an hour, often referred to as “falling back.” This change results in an extra hour of sleep during the fall transition.
Adjusting Clocks
Though many digital devices automatically update, residents are reminded to manually change the time on various appliances, including:
- Stoves
- Microwaves
- Car radios
- Home radios
- Wall clocks
Current Discussions and Future of DST
Despite being a long-standing tradition, there have been ongoing discussions regarding the relevance of Daylight Saving Time. In recent years, multiple proposals have been brought before Congress to abolish DST.
One such bill introduced last year aimed to establish permanent standard time. It also allowed states with areas exempt from DST to choose their time standards. Unfortunately, the bill did not progress in the Senate and will need reintroduction in 2026 for further consideration.
