As the seasons change and fall settles in, it’s time to prepare for the end of daylight saving time (DST) in 2024. On November 3, we fall back by one hour this year, providing many people with a much-needed extra hour of sleep. But what exactly does this time change mean, and why do we alter our clocks twice a year? Let’s dive into the details.
When Does Daylight Saving Time End?
The last day of daylight saving time is Sunday, November 3, 2024. We will get an additional hour of sleep when clocks fall back to 1 a.m. local time at 2 a.m. This implies that once the clocks change, it will seem like 9 p.m. if you go to bed at 10 p.m. Evening activities will be impacted, though, because sunset will occur one hour earlier. In New York City, for example, the sun will set at 4:49 p.m. on November 4 instead of 5:50 p.m. the day before.
Understanding Daylight Saving Time
In order to save energy by maximizing daylight, daylight saving time was originally used in the United States during World War I .The idea was to shift an hour of daylight from sunrise to sunset, which may lessen the need for artificial illumination. After various ups and downs—including repeal and reinstatement—daylight saving time was solidified with the Uniform Time Act of 1966, which set standard start and end dates.
The second Sunday in March has been the start of daylight saving time in the United States since 2007. While the concept is often associated with Ben Franklin, it’s actually New Zealand entomologist George Hudson and British builder William Willett who played significant roles in advocating for longer daylight hours in the evenings.
Make sure to reset all of your clocks tonight, and it's also a great time to check that your smoke alarms are working properly. We'll get an extra hour of daylight in the morning starting Sunday, but that also means the sun will be setting close to 5pm! pic.twitter.com/fGxNzoOzGK
— First Alert Weather Team (@DakotaNewsNowWx) November 2, 2024The Health and Safety Debate
The biannual clock change has sparked ongoing discussions about its effects on health and safety. Studies have shown that the shift can disrupt our circadian rhythms, leading to various health issues. Research indicates increased risks of heart attacks, sleep disturbances, and even a rise in accidents in the days following the time change. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and other organizations advocate for the permanence of standard time, arguing that it aligns better with our natural biological rhythms.
Which States Don’t Observe Daylight Saving Time?
It’s interesting to note that not all states observe daylight saving time.Hawaii and most of Arizona—with the exception of the Navajo Nation—choose to remain on standard time year-round. Additionally, several U.S. territories, such as American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and Guam, also do not observe DST.
Calls for Permanent Change
The ongoing debate over whether to keep changing clocks has gained traction in recent years. In 2022, the Sunshine Protection Act was passed by the Senate, proposing to make daylight saving time permanent. Advocates, including Senator Marco Rubio from Florida, argue that a permanent shift would bring health and economic benefits. Despite this, the legislation has not advanced in the House of Representatives, leaving many wondering if the clock changes will continue indefinitely.
What Are the Options for States?
While no state can independently adopt permanent daylight saving time without federal approval, numerous states have proposed legislation to make the change if Congress allows it. As of now, Oklahoma is the most recent state to pass a measure for permanent daylight saving time, pending Congressional approval. Other states that have expressed interest include Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, and many more.
Adjusting to the Time Change
For parents, adjusting children’s sleep schedules around the time change can be challenging. Experts suggest encouraging physical activity during the day and limiting screen time in the evening to help kids transition smoothly. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can also aid in adjusting to the new schedule.
The Historical Context of Daylight Saving Time
There have been instances of year-round daylight saving time in the United States, especially during World War II and the energy crises of the 1970s. However, these experiments often faced backlash as people found the late sunrises during winter months inconvenient. The government reversed these changes, leading to the current system we know today.
What’s Next?
As discussions about the future of daylight saving time continue, many Americans express a desire for a more consistent approach to timekeeping. Polls indicate that a significant number of people would prefer either year-round standard time or permanent daylight saving time. As it stands, the debate is ongoing, with many states exploring their options while awaiting further federal guidance.
In conclusion, the end of daylight saving time on November 3, 2024, not only gives us an extra hour of sleep but also brings to light the complexities and controversies surrounding this long-standing practice. Whether we will see permanent changes in the future remains uncertain, but for now, we will continue to adjust our clocks and our routines twice a year.
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