On March 8, millions in the United States will shift their clocks forward one hour as Daylight Saving Time (DST) resumes. This annual adjustment signifies the return of longer daylight hours, with the sun setting later in the evening.
Understanding Daylight Saving Time Resumes
Daylight Saving Time kicks off on the second Sunday in March. This year, it begins early in the morning, affecting many across the country. Upon moving the clocks forward, evening sunset times change significantly. For example, on March 1, the sun sets at 5:34 p.m. By the end of March, this time extends to 7:09 p.m.
Impact on Daylight Hours
As clocks spring forward, the daylight duration increases. On March 8, daylight will last approximately 11 hours and 34 minutes. By the month’s end, this will grow to an impressive total of 86 minutes more daylight compared to earlier in the month.
- March 1: Sunset at 5:34 p.m.
- End of March: Sunset at 7:09 p.m.
- Total daylight gain for March: 86 minutes
Seasonal Changes and Spring
The start of Daylight Saving Time reflects the arrival of spring. It coincides with solar spring beginning on February 6 and meteorological spring commencing in March. Astronomical spring will take effect on March 20 during the spring equinox.
History of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time was first implemented during World War I to conserve energy. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 established a standardized DST across most of the United States. Since 2007, the time change takes place on the second Sunday in March.
Currently, all U.S. states observe DST except for Hawaii and most of Arizona. Territories such as Puerto Rico and Guam also do not participate in the time shift.
Calls for Permanent Daylight Saving Time
The conversation around permanently adopting Daylight Saving Time has gained momentum in recent years. The Sunshine Protection Act aims to abolish the twice-yearly changeover, yet faces hurdles. The bill has been presented several times since 2018, receiving unanimous Senate support in 2022 but struggling to advance in the House.
In January 2025, a new version of the bill was reintroduced and awaits consideration by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Former President Trump has expressed his support for this change.
It’s important to note that while some advocate for perpetual DST, organizations like the American Medical Association recommend keeping standard time year-round for better alignment with human biology and sleep patterns.
