Proposed bill would end Daylight Saving Time in New York

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Legislation has been introduced in the state assembly that would eliminate Daylight Saving Time in New York. The bill would do away with the usual biannual clock changes and proposes the idea of the state staying on standard time year-round.

The legislation cites reports from institutions such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Medical Association, with studies showing that daily schedule transitions for Daylight Saving Time can cause adverse health impacts. Introduced by Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, the concept has previously received bipartisan support, with state Senator Joseph Griffo having sponsored related legislation in the state senate during the 2023-2024 legislative session.

"Daylight Saving Time no longer serves its original purpose and has proven to disrupt daily life,
affecting everything from sleep patterns to productivity," said Assemblyman Santabarbara. "By staying on standard time, New York can help residents avoid the confusion and health risks caused by DST transitions, especially as the days grow shorter in the winter."

If adopted, New York would join Arizona and Hawaii, which have already exempted themselves from Daylight Saving Time. States are permitted to opt out of the practice under the Uniform Time Act of 1966.