Pa. lawmakers want to end daylight savings time, but impacts are uncertain
Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering ending daylight saving time due to its link to health problems and diminished academic performance. Experts testified that making standard time permanent could improve sleep and health, and academic performance.
Pennsylvania lawmakers are weighing the pros and cons of ending daylight saving time. Traffic safety and sleep science experts testified before the state House Intergovernmental Affairs and Operations Committee on three competing bills. Under the federal Uniform Time Act, states can opt out of daylight saving time but cannot make it permanent. Dr. Indira Gurubhagavatula, a University of Pennsylvania professor, said science supports a permanent return to standard time, citing data from the US Centers for Disease Control that shows Americans are chronically sleep deprived. Changing clocks disrupts the body's internal clock and can lead to health problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and depression. Some Pennsylvania schools have adjusted their schedules to align with adolescent sleep needs.
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