As daylight saving time comes to an end each fall, most states in the U.S. set their clocks back an hour to standard time, a practice designed to maximize daylight during winter mornings. However, some states have moved toward keeping daylight saving time (DST) year-round, avoiding the twice-annual clock change. If you’re wondering which states will “spring forward” but not “fall back,” here’s the current list and background on this shift in timekeeping.
States that Do Not Observe the “Fall Back” Clock Change
Currently, most states still observe daylight saving time, but several states have passed legislation or resolutions to remain on daylight saving time permanently. However, under current federal law, states are required to stay on standard time unless granted an exemption by Congress. Here’s a look at the current status of states choosing to forgo the fall clock change:
| State | Status on DST Year-Round |
|---|---|
| Hawaii | No DST observance at all; remains on standard time year-round |
| Arizona | Does not observe DST except for the Navajo Nation |
| Florida | Passed legislation to stay on DST but awaiting approval |
| Washington | Passed legislation to stay on DST but awaiting approval |
| California | Voters approved DST year-round, pending congressional approval |
Why Some States Want to Stay on Daylight Saving Time
States have proposed remaining on daylight saving time year-round for several reasons, including improved energy efficiency, reduced traffic accidents, and the benefit of longer daylight hours in the evening. However, until federal legislation is passed to allow these changes, states that have approved DST year-round must still follow the annual clock change.
With growing interest among states to eliminate the clock change and stay on daylight saving time, many are waiting for federal action to enable this shift. For now, most U.S. residents will continue to set their clocks back in the fall. However, the move toward year-round DST remains a strong possibility, potentially making time changes a thing of the past for many.
FAQ’s:
1. Why do some states not observe daylight saving time?
Hawaii and most of Arizona have opted out of daylight saving time entirely, as their geographical location provides little benefit in changing clocks for longer daylight hours.
2. Can states legally stay on daylight saving time year-round?
Currently, federal law permits states to opt out of DST and stay on standard time, but they cannot stay on DST year-round without congressional approval.
3. Which states are pushing for permanent daylight saving time?
States including Florida, Washington, and California have passed legislation or referendums to remain on daylight saving time permanently, pending federal approval.
4. How does staying on DST year-round benefit residents?
Proponents argue it reduces energy costs, decreases traffic accidents by providing more daylight during evening commutes, and offers more after-work daylight for outdoor activities.
5. What is the likelihood of a federal law allowing permanent DST?
Federal bills, like the “Sunshine Protection Act,” have been proposed, but no national decision has been made yet to allow states to stay on DST year-round.
