A federal proposal to make daylight saving time permanent across the United States could end the twice-a-year clock change, but it would also keep Iowa on “spring forward” time throughout the entire year.
The U.S. House passed the Sunshine Protection Act by a vote of 308 to 117, and the bill now awaits action in the Senate, where its future remains uncertain.
What the Bill Would Change
Under the current system, clocks move forward by one hour every March when daylight saving time begins. This creates later sunsets during spring, summer and early fall.
Each November, clocks move back one hour to standard time, bringing earlier sunrises and earlier sunsets during the winter months.
If the proposed change becomes law, Iowa would no longer “fall back” in November. Instead, the state would remain on daylight saving time year-round.
What It Would Mean for Iowa
KCCI Storm Team 8 meteorologist Sloane Dulaney explained that permanent daylight saving time would shift Iowa’s winter daylight one hour later.
For example, under the current system, the sun would rise at 7:34 a.m. and set at 4:44 p.m. on December 10 after the usual fall time change. If permanent daylight saving time is adopted, sunrise would move to 8:34 a.m., while sunset would shift to 5:44 p.m.
Later Sunrises Would Continue Into January
The change would not only affect December mornings.
By late January, Iowa residents would still see sunrise around 8:30 a.m., meaning many students, commuters and workers could begin their day in darker conditions.
However, the trade-off would be more daylight in the evening, with sunsets reaching close to 6:30 p.m. by late January.
Supporters Want to End Clock Changes
Supporters of permanent daylight saving time argue that Americans are tired of changing clocks twice a year.
They say the switch disrupts sleep, creates confusion and may affect health and productivity. Backers also argue that more evening daylight could support outdoor activities, local businesses and family routines.
Critics Warn About Dark Winter Mornings
Opponents say year-round daylight saving time could create safety and health concerns during winter.
In states like Iowa, later sunrises could mean children waiting for buses in the dark and workers commuting before daylight. Some sleep experts also argue that permanent standard time is better aligned with the body’s natural rhythm.
Senate Decision Still Unclear
Although the bill passed the House with bipartisan support, it still needs Senate approval before it can become law.
Reuters reported that Senate support remains uncertain, with some senators raising concerns about northern states, dark mornings and public safety.
If permanent daylight saving time becomes law, Iowa would no longer change clocks in November and would keep later evening daylight through winter.
However, that benefit would come with much darker mornings, including sunrises around 8:30 a.m. in parts of December and January.
The proposal has cleared the House, but its fate now depends on whether the Senate agrees to move the country toward year-round daylight saving time.