Rep. Alfieri introduces measure to end twice-yearly clock changes, move state to permanent standard time

Representative Joe Alfieri introduced RS 32,004, a bill to end the biannual clock change and keep the state on standard time year-round. He told the committee the change is intended to reduce health and safety risks associated with switching clocks twice a year, and the committee voted to introduce the measure for print.

"You don't have to go through that ridiculous change of time, twice a year, where you have to figure out how to change the clock in your car or things of that nature," Alfieri said, describing the inconvenience that motivated the proposal. He cited medical organizations in support, saying, "There is a great deal of evidence that the yearly change back and forth is unhealthy. There the American Medical Association has long lobbied against the change in time as well as other medical associations across the country."

Alfieri told the committee that the state cannot unilaterally adopt permanent daylight-saving time and that a congressional action would be required for that. "We're not able to adopt daylight time, daylight savings time on our own. That has to be a congressional measure. We cannot do that but we can move to standard time and that's what this measure is about," he said.

The committee moved to introduce RS 32,004 for print. Representative Scott made the motion; members signaled agreement by voice vote and the motion carried. The bill will proceed to a printed draft and a public hearing where members can address implementation details and any coordination with federal requirements.