The Georgia Senate passed House Bill 154 on Monday, aiming to eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes by shifting the state to Atlantic Standard Time year-round. The measure cleared the chamber with a 45-5 vote and now requires federal approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Known as the Georgia Sunshine Protection Act, the bill would petition the DOT to move Georgia from Eastern Standard Time to Atlantic Standard Time, effectively keeping daylight saving time permanent if approved by Secretary Sean Duffy.

Supporters argue that ending clock changes would benefit public health, commerce, and school schedules. State Sen. Bo Hatchett, the bill’s sponsor, cited spikes in car accidents, strokes, and heart attacks following time shifts, as well as disruptions for families and individuals with autism.

Georgia previously passed a law in 2021 to adopt year-round daylight saving time, but it cannot take effect until Congress repeals the Uniform Time Act of 1966. HB 154 provides a workaround, allowing the state to bypass congressional inaction. Hatchett noted that lawmakers in South Carolina and Florida are exploring similar measures.

The bill now returns to the House to approve the Senate’s amendments. If enacted and approved by the Department of Transportation, Georgia residents could enjoy an extra hour of evening sunlight year-round, especially during winter months, benefiting commerce, recreation, and family time.

Officials warn that permanent daylight saving time could create time differences with neighboring states, including Alabama and Tennessee, potentially complicating cross-state schedules. Supporters maintain the benefits outweigh the challenges, hoping to give Georgians “a little extra sunshine to brighten their day.”