U.S. Radio Industry Fights Year-Round Daylight Saving Time
The Sunshine Protection Act (S.29/H.R.139), which aims to make daylight saving time a permanent fixture, is running into resistance from the U.S. radio sector. They’re worried that winter sunrises would be pushed back, hurting morning listening and ad sales. If this bill goes through, many areas would see sunrises after 8 a.m., with Williston, North Dakota potentially facing a sunrise as late as 9:45 a.m. The National Association of Broadcasters has called on lawmakers to turn down the bill, pointing out the importance of morning drive-time for advertising. However, supporters like Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and former President Trump argue it could boost tourism and health. Florida already made DST permanent in 2018, with 19 other states following. The bill is now going to be examined by both the House and Senate after a previous filibuster setback.
Key facts
- The Sunshine Protection Act would make daylight saving time permanent year-round.
- The House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced the bill alongside a measure requiring AM radios in vehicles.
- During winter, permanent DST would delay sunrise until after 8 a.m. in most of the U.S., and as late as 9:45 a.m. in Williston, ND.
- The National Association of Broadcasters opposes the bill, citing harm to morning drive-time revenue.
- Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) first proposed the clock shift in 2013.
- President Donald Trump supports permanent DST, calling the clock change 'ridiculous.'
- Florida passed permanent DST in 2018; 19 other states have enacted similar legislation.
- The bill failed to get 60 votes in the Senate last fall and is now attached to transportation measures.
Entities
Institutions
- House Energy and Commerce Committee
- National Association of Broadcasters
- Senate
Locations
- United States
- Grand Rapids
- Michigan
- Williston
- North Dakota
- Florida
- New Jersey