As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, it’s that time of year again to “fall back.” But did you know that not all states observe daylight saving time? In fact, some states have even introduced legislation to eliminate it entirely. As we approach the end of daylight saving time, here’s what you need to know.
When Do We Change the Clocks?
According to federal law, states that participate in daylight saving time will roll their clocks back at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November. This year, that falls on November 3rd. This means that we will gain an extra hour of sleep as the clocks “fall back.” The next time we will change the clocks will be on the second Sunday in March 2025, when we will “spring forward” and lose an hour of sleep.
What is Daylight Saving Time?
Daylight saving time is a practice of changing the clocks to make better use of daylight during the summer months. This practice begins in the spring and ends in the fall, with clocks either moving forward or backward by one hour. When we are not in daylight saving time, we are in standard time, which is the local time in a country or region when daylight saving time is not in use. Currently, Illinois follows this pattern, “springing forward” in the spring and “falling back” in the fall.
When Does Daylight Saving Time End?
As mentioned before, daylight saving time will end on the first Sunday of November each year, giving us an extra hour of sleep. In 2024, this will fall on November 3rd. However, not all states participate in daylight saving time.
Do All States Participate in Daylight Saving Time?
While most states do participate in daylight saving time, there are exceptions. Arizona and Hawaii have opted out of the practice and do not change their clocks. Additionally, some states have passed legislation to allow them to observe permanent daylight saving time if Congress were to alter the Uniform Time Act.
Can States Decide Their Own Time?
Under the Uniform Time Act, states have the option to participate in daylight saving time, opt out of it, or keep year-round standard time. However, states cannot choose to observe permanent daylight saving time unless Congress changes the law. Currently, there are efforts in several states, such as Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, to adopt permanent daylight saving time.
Efforts in Illinois and Indiana
In Illinois and Indiana, there have been proposals to observe permanent daylight saving time, but they have not passed the General Assembly. In Michigan, a referendum was proposed for voters to have a say in daylight saving time, but it did not pass in time for the 2024 election.
The Benefits of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight saving time has been a topic of debate for many years, with arguments for and against it. Those who support it argue that it helps to save energy, as there is more daylight during the evening hours. It also allows for more time for outdoor activities and boosts the economy. However, opponents argue that the time change disrupts sleep patterns and can have negative effects on health.
In conclusion, as we approach the end of daylight saving time, it’s essential to stay informed about the time change and its effects. While some states have opted out of the practice, most of us will still “fall back” on November 3rd. Whether you are a fan of daylight saving time or not, it’s important to remember that it is a temporary change, and we will soon adjust to the new time. So enjoy that extra hour of sleep, and let’s make the most of the daylight while we still have it.
