Nevada Takes a Step toward Ending Daylight Saving Time
Table of Contents
- 1. Nevada Takes a Step toward Ending Daylight Saving Time
- 2. The debate Over Daylight Saving Time
- 3. Health Concerns Drive Push for Change
- 4. Counterarguments and Economic Considerations
- 5. Federal Restrictions and State Options
- 6. Next Steps for Nevada
- 7. FAQ: Daylight Saving Time in Nevada
- 8. Her turn to making jest, and so began the affair like a fast-burning candle
- 9. Nevada’s “Lock the clock Act”: An Interview with Dr. Evelyn Reed on the Future of Daylight Saving time
- 10. Interview Introduction
- 11. Health Implications of DST
- 12. Permanent Standard Time vs. Daylight saving Time
- 13. Addressing Counterarguments
- 14. Looking Ahead
- 15. Reader Interaction
LAS VEGAS (Archyde.com) — The Nevada Assembly has passed a bill that could eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes, joining a growing national debate over the merits of daylight saving time.
in a 27-15 vote, the Nevada Assembly approved Assembly Bill 81, also known as the “Lock the Clock Act,” moving the state closer to ending daylight saving time. The bill, introduced by Assemblywoman Selena La Rue Hatch, representing southwest Reno, enjoys bipartisan support from legislators across Nevada.
If the Nevada Senate approves the bill and it is signed into law, Nevada would make its final “fall back” later this year and the change would take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
The debate Over Daylight Saving Time
The perennial debate over daylight saving time (DST) continues to spark discussion nationwide. Proponents argue for its energy-saving benefits and increased opportunities for recreation, while opponents cite potential health risks and disruptions to daily routines.The proposed change in Nevada reflects a growing movement to standardize time,either by adopting permanent standard time or permanent DST.
| Argument For DST | Argument Against DST |
|---|---|
| Potential energy savings (though studies are mixed) | Disrupts circadian rhythms and sleep patterns |
| Increased evening daylight for recreation and commerce | Associated with increased risk of heart attacks and other health issues |
| May reduce traffic accidents (conflicting research) | Can cause temporary confusion and scheduling difficulties |
Health Concerns Drive Push for Change
A significant driving force behind the movement to end daylight saving time is mounting evidence of its potential negative impacts on public health. John Packham, policy director for the Nevada Public Health Association, voiced his support for the bill citing health and safety benefits. “Current research supports the adoption of year-round standard time, which aligns best with human circadian biology and provides distinct benefits for public health and safety,” Packham wrote in a letter to the Assembly Government Affairs Committee.
Research in cardiovascular medicine has also highlighted these risks. A 2014 study published in the British Medical Journal found a 24% increase in heart attacks
the Monday after daylight saving time began in the spring, along with a 21% decrease in heart attacks the Tuesday after DST ends each fall.
Assemblywoman La Rue hatch echoes these concerns, stating, “I actually get emailed about (daylight saving time) quite frequently enough, obviously right around the clock-changing times… We see that there’s a lot of negative health effects when we switch the clocks either forward or back, including higher incidence of heart attacks, stroke, hospital admissions, car accidents and a whole lot more.”
Counterarguments and Economic Considerations
While health concerns dominate the debate, some argue that ending daylight saving time prematurely lacks sufficient study. Ron Aryel, a reno pediatrician, called the effort “well-intentioned,” but said the matter deserves more study. In an email to legislators and other elected officials, Aryel cited potential energy savings and a lower crime rate during the summer months when daylight extends well into the evening.
Though, studies on the actual energy savings from DST are mixed, with some showing minimal impact or even slight increases in energy consumption.Concerns about crime rates are similarly debated, with some studies suggesting a correlation between evening daylight and reduced crime, while others find no significant link.
| Claim | Evidence |
|---|---|
| DST saves energy | Studies show mixed results; some indicate minimal impact or slight increases in energy use. |
| DST reduces crime | Some studies suggest a correlation, but evidence is not conclusive. |
Federal Restrictions and State Options
Under current federal law, states have limited options regarding daylight saving time. They can choose to observe standard time year-round, but require congressional approval to enact permanent daylight saving time. “The federal government only allows us to adopt permanent standard time,” La Rue Hatch said in March. “I’d rather us do something we can implement right away.”
Currently, 20 states have laws in place to move to permanent DST if Congress grants permission. If Nevada adopts permanent standard time, it would perhaps be surrounded by states observing either permanent DST (if federal law changes) or, in the case of Arizona, not observing DST at all.
Next Steps for Nevada
With the Assembly’s approval, Assembly Bill 81 now moves to the Nevada Senate for consideration.Six senators have already signed on as co-sponsors, including Carrie Ann Buck (R-Henderson), John Ellison (R-Elko), Rochelle Nguyen (D-Las Vegas), John Steinbeck (R-Las vegas), jeff Stone (R-Henderson) and Robin Titus (R-Wellington). Senator Titus had previously introduced a similar bill in the Senate.
Nevadans can share their views on Assembly Bill 81 or any other bill under consideration at leg.state.nv.us, allowing citizens to directly influence the legislative process.
FAQ: Daylight Saving Time in Nevada
- Why is Nevada considering ending daylight saving time?
- The primary reason is concern for public health. Studies suggest that changing clocks twice a year disrupts circadian rhythms and may contribute to increased heart attacks,strokes,and other health problems.
- What is Assembly Bill 81?
- Assembly Bill 81, also known as the “Lock the Clock Act,” is a bill passed by the Nevada Assembly that would put the state on permanent standard time, eliminating the need to change clocks in the spring and fall.
- When would the change take effect?
- If passed by the nevada Senate and signed into law, the change would take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
- Can Nevada choose to have permanent daylight saving time instead?
- No. Under current federal law, states can only choose to observe permanent standard time. Switching to permanent daylight saving time requires congressional approval.
- How can I voice my opinion on this issue?
- Nevadans can share their views on Assembly Bill 81 or any other bill under consideration at leg.state.nv.us.
Her turn to making jest, and so began the affair like a fast-burning candle
Nevada’s “Lock the clock Act”: An Interview with Dr. Evelyn Reed on the Future of Daylight Saving time
LAS VEGAS (Archyde.com) – As Nevada inches closer to potentially ending daylight saving time (DST) with the passing of Assembly Bill 81, we spoke with Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading sleep medicine specialist, to delve deeper into the implications of this move.
Interview Introduction
Archyde Editor: Dr. Reed, welcome. Thank you for joining us to discuss the proposed end of daylight saving time in Nevada. With the recent approval of the “Lock the Clock Act,” the state is on the precipice of notable change. Can you give us your viewpoint on the core issues motivating this legislation?
Health Implications of DST
Dr. Reed: Thank you for having me. From a medical perspective, the primary driver is the compelling evidence linking the twice-yearly clock changes to adverse health outcomes. The disruption to our circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock, can have far-reaching effects.
Archyde Editor: The article mentions increased heart attack risks. can you elaborate on the specific health concerns and the underlying physiological mechanisms?
Dr. Reed: Absolutely. Studies, like those referenced in the article, have shown a temporary increase in cardiovascular events immediately following the spring time change. This disruption can affect sleep quality,hormone regulation,and even immune function. Essentially, our bodies struggle to adapt quickly to losing or gaining that hour of sleep, leading to increased stress on the cardiovascular system, along with other potential health issues.
Permanent Standard Time vs. Daylight saving Time
Archyde Editor: Nevada’s bill proposes a move to permanent standard time, not permanent DST. Why is this a crucial distinction based on current scientific understanding?
Dr. Reed: The key lies in aligning our daily schedules with the natural cycle of light and dark. Standard time, generally, is more closely aligned to our natural circadian rhythms. It means waking up and going to bed more in sync with the rising and setting of the sun.Permanent DST, which some states are considering, keeps the clock shifted forward, resulting in later sunrises year-round, potentially further disrupting sleep cycles and impacting morning routines and the exposure to morning light, which is essential for our bodies.
Addressing Counterarguments
Archyde Editor: We’ve covered the health benefits, But we no there are counterarguments, for instance, potential economic concerns. How do you weigh those against the health considerations?
Dr. Reed: It’s a complex balancing act. I think the health implications should be paramount. Potential energy savings, or impacts on commerce, while worthy of consideration, are secondary when weighing them against the public well-being. The data on energy savings is also pretty mixed, anyway. At the end of the day,a healthier population is a more productive population.
Looking Ahead
Archyde Editor: Assuming the Senate approves AB81, and the change takes effect in 2026. What are some of the practical adjustments people should anticipate?
Dr. Reed: Initially, there might be some confusion, particularly in adjusting to the new schedule. People will need to be mindful of their sleep hygiene, ensuring consistent bedtimes and consistent exposure to daylight, whether they work outside or inside to ensure that natural light still provides a means of regulating the body’s clock.If the change happens, it’s all down to finding time to adjust and stay healthy.
Archyde Editor: That’s some very captivating, helpful data, Is there anything else you want to share with our readers right before we end our interview?
Dr. Reed: I just encourage everyone to stay informed and advocate for policies that prioritize public health. It’s essential to promote practices that result in the best opportunities for overall well-being to become a focus in our daily lives.
Reader Interaction
Archyde Editor: Thank you, Dr. Reed, for this enlightening discussion.We are confident that we now have more information to reflect on. What are your thoughts on the Nevada’s “Lock the Clock Act”? Share your opinions in the comments below!
