Tuberville Renews Push to "Lock the Clock" and Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent

WASHINGTON, D.C. - October 28, 2025 - U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) once again took to the Senate floor to advocate for the Sunshine Protection Act, his bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent nationwide. Joined by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) and other colleagues, Tuberville forced a vote on the measure-but the bill failed to pass the Senate.

Tuberville's speech underscored the widespread frustration among Alabamians and Americans over the biannual time change, which he called "outdated" and "harmful to public health."

"In the five years I've served here in the Senate, making Daylight Saving Time permanent is the number one issue I hear about back home," Tuberville said. "This weekend, my constituents in Alabama and across America will be forced to change their clocks. As a result, it will be dark in Washington, D.C. at 5PM next week."

A Longstanding Practice with Modern Consequences

Tuberville traced the origins of Daylight Saving Time to World War I and World War II, when it was used to conserve fuel and energy. The current system-springing forward and falling back-was standardized in 1966. But Tuberville argued that what made sense in the 1960s no longer serves Americans today.

"Changing our clocks twice a year might have made sense in the 60s, but it doesn't make sense anymore," he said.

Health Risks and Public Safety

Citing research from Northwestern Medicine, Tuberville highlighted the health risks associated with time changes, including:

• A 6% spike in fatal car accidents following time shifts

• A 24% increase in heart attack risk

• Long-term effects such as weight gain, cluster headaches, and depression

He also linked the issue to broader public health efforts, referencing RFK Jr.'s work at the Department of Health and Human Services.

"Switching the clock back and forth is the exact opposite of the Make America Healthy Again movement," Tuberville said. "It's bad for sleep, it's bad for nutrition, and it's bad for overall health."

What's Next?

Despite the setback, Tuberville pledged to continue pushing for the bill to reach the Senate floor. He closed his remarks by yielding back to Senator Rick Scott, who co-sponsored the legislation.

Tuberville serves on the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans' Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees. His advocacy for permanent Daylight Saving Time has become a signature issue, especially among constituents in Alabama who want more daylight in the evening and fewer disruptions to their routines.

Sen. Tuberville is a 2026 candidate for Governor of Alabama.