The Sunshine Protection Act, passed by the U.S. House, would make daylight saving time permanent year-round if approved by the Senate and signed into law. The shift would bring lighter evenings and darker mornings, with effects varying by region.
Homeowners in Alabama, Florida, and Texas would gain more usable daylight. Those in Maine, Michigan, and Wisconsin would face much later sunrises and limited daylight hours. The bill has stalled, though President Donald Trump recently called the twice-yearly clock change "stupid" and urged the Senate to pass it.
Permanent daylight saving time could reduce evening electricity use for indoor lighting. Brandon Young, CEO of Payless Power in Fort Worth, Texas, noted that dark winter mornings would force furnaces to work harder before sunrise. Summer's additional sunlight could keep houses warmer longer, pushing air conditioners to run during peak energy hours.
Lawn maintenance could shift to evenings rather than weekends. Enhanced evening security may result from more daylight when most crimes occur. Homes listed for sale could show better in winter months, since most buyers view properties in the evening, and natural lighting would highlight exterior features and curb appeal.
To adapt to darker winter mornings, Young recommends preheating houses 30 to 45 minutes before waking rather than all night. Marcus Griswold, founder of Little Green Myths in Vallejo, California, suggests using zoned heating to isolate unused rooms. Smart shades can stay open during the day to capture heat and close at sunset in winter. Gradual sunrise options on smart bulbs placed in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways can enhance alertness. Young's survey found 84% of Americans claim it takes at least one day to adjust after a time change, while 29% say adjustment takes at least one week. Time-of-use pricing from utility companies allows scheduling dishwashers and laundry outside peak hours for lower rates.