Every year, twice a year, American's have to change their clocks and adapt to the switch from daylight savings time to standard time and vise versa, which has become not only an annoyance, but harmful to our health. The Sunshine Protection Act is a bill that makes daylight savings time permanent. This will lock the clock, getting rid of the stress that comes with the switch, while also providing a plethora of benefits. 

Each November when it is time to "fall back" an hour, we have to readjust our busy schedules and lives while ultimately losing an hour of daylight used to get things done or enjoy before dark. This biannual change especially affects the agricultural industry as it disrupts farmers' schedules and supply chain partners. 

The Sunshine Protection Act can also help the economy by reducing the use of electricity and artificial light in the extended hours of daylight as well as help small businesses by preventing the 2.2-4.9% drop in economic activity that occurs when the clocks are pushed back. It creates a safer environment by improving road safety during dawn and dusk hours for pedestrians by 13%; reducing car crashes and accidents involving pedestrians. Following the shift to DST robberies decrease by 27%.

There are health benefits that come along with the bill as well, as it reduces the likelihood of childhood obesity, by giving children time to get involved in after school activities before the sunlight fades. Additionally, there is an increase in physical activity for pedestrians by 62% and cyclists by 38% during DST, primarily reducing the risks of strokes and cardiac problems. Not to mention the beneficial effects permanent DST would have on mental health by reducing seasonal depression and eliminating the 11% increase in unipolar depressive episodes associated with the switch from DST to standard time. 

By supporting The Sunshine Protection Act, together we can lock the clock and let the sunshine.