LANSING, Mich. (March 10, 2021) — Today, Sen. Jeff Irwin (D–Ann Arbor) introduced a bill to observe permanent Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Michigan. This bill would end the Spring Forward and Fall Back once and for all.
Studies show that our quaint tradition of changing the clocks twice a year causes widespread social and economic disruption. It directly leads to increased traffic and workplace accidents, higher rates of strokes and heart attacks, and decreased rates of workplace productivity. In addition to these negative consequences, the time changes no longer serve the intended purpose of saving energy. In fact, this anachronistic habit now wastes energy instead of conserving it, as the meager savings in lighting are offset by increased energy usage from heating and cooling.
“Twice a year, we volunteer Michiganians for more car accidents and injuries at work. We see lower productivity and an increased number of heart attacks and strokes, as well as a noticeable uptick in general crankiness,” Sen Irwin said. “The twice a year time change has no benefits for our state, and we should stop doing it immediately.”
The movement for DST reform is growing, with 15 states passing legislation to observe permanent DST over the past four years.
This legislation will keep Michigan on the summer schedule (DST) year-round. This is good for entertainment and hospitality businesses and is designed to maximize the enjoyment of a late summer evening.
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