Lock the Clock

A renewed push under the slogan 'Lock the Clock!' is calling for governments to stop the twice-yearly switching between daylight saving and standard time. Supporters argue permanent time would cut disruption to sleep, schedules and the economy, and the demand is drawing fresh debate in the media about whether legislatures should finally abolish the seasonal clock change.

The United States wants to stop the twice-yearly clock changes, but there is disagreement over whether the country should permanently keep standard time or daylight saving time. The debate pits those who favor brighter evenings against those who argue year-round standard time is better for health and safety, leaving lawmakers divided on which clock to lock in.

A new analysis argues that permanent standard time is the healthier option, even as clocks remain on daylight saving time. The report challenges the growing political push to lock in daylight saving year-round, suggesting scientists favour standard time for its alignment with human circadian rhythms, while legislatures have leaned toward later evening daylight.