South Dakota has a long history with daylight saving time, marked by significant votes and legislative efforts. In 1968, state voters decisively rejected a proposal to eliminate daylight saving time, with 59% opposing the measure. This reflects a broader context where only two states, Hawaii and Arizona, observe standard time year-round.
Recent Legislative Attempts
In 2025, South Dakota state representative Carl Perry from Aberdeen introduced new legislation aimed at permanently ending daylight saving time. However, this proposal faced a setback when a committee voted 8-1 against it.
Arguments For and Against
Proponents of the legislation argued that eliminating daylight saving time would enhance sleep quality, public health, and safety. They believed it would also help students maintain focus in school without the disruptive clock changes.
Conversely, some legislators, including Representative John Sjaarda from Valley Springs, opposed the idea. They contended that daylight saving time benefits farmers by providing more daylight hours for agricultural activities.
Current Practices and Future Considerations
As of this year, daylight saving time will conclude on November 2, when clocks “fall back” one hour to standard time. Although nineteen states have voted for permanent daylight saving time, federal law currently restricts this option to standard time.
- Significant vote in 1968: 59% against eliminating daylight saving time.
- Only Hawaii and Arizona on standard time year-round.
- Legislation introduced in 2025 by Rep. Carl Perry, but rejected 8-1.
- Benefits cited: better sleep, health, and student focus.
- Opposition: daylight saving time advantageous for farmers.
This ongoing discussion around daylight saving time reflects the diversity of opinions within South Dakota and highlights the complexities of time management across the United States.
