Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, delivered remarks on July 14 in support of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make Daylight Saving Time permanent.
Guthrie said, “I rise today to speak in support of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act.” He continued, “For years, my colleagues and I have heard from our constituents that they want Congress to step in and ‘lock the clock,’ making Daylight Saving Time permanent.”
He referenced a recent committee hearing focused on the tourism industry where there was an in-depth discussion about changing clocks twice a year. Guthrie said that when the committee marked its portion of surface transportation reauthorization—which included this bill—it passed with a vote of 48 to 1.
“Daylight Saving Time affects more than our sleep schedules. It also impacts energy conservation, motor vehicle safety, health, and economic factors, to name a few,” Guthrie said. He explained that the act would shift one hour of sunlight from morning to evening during winter months. According to Guthrie: “In practice, that means more time for people to exercise outside, visit family, attend concerts and sporting events, attract customers to their retail businesses, and more.”
He added: “It also means more sunlight at the end of the day so Americans can return safely from work [and] children can return safely from school.” Concluding his remarks, he said: “The Sunshine Protection Act is a necessary bill that responds to the wishes of our constituents and the needs of our communities.”
The House Energy and Commerce Committee focuses on legislation concerning energy policy as well as health care issues; it has influenced areas such as energy innovation and pharmaceutical pricing since its origins as one of Congress’s oldest standing committees dating back to 1795, according to its official website.