There has been more discussion concerning daylight saving time and whether or not Illinois should do something about it.  Representative Brad Halbrook has filed legislation that would end changing your clock, making daylight saving time permanent. Representative Halbrook says that switching back and forth between daylight saving time and standard time can have very real mental and physical repercussions. He says it can also lead to mood swings, depression, and even a risk of heart issues. 

Daylight saving time, was first introduced in the US as an energy saving measure during the wars.  In 1966, the Uniform Time Act made the change permanent in the US, establishing consistent start and end dates for the time changes.  HB1400 would make daylight saving time permanent year round in Illinois beginning the second Sunday in March of 2026.  

Representative Halbrook says it’s time and having more daylight year round would have several benefits including improving physical and mental well being, as well as saving on energy costs.  Halbrook concludes with saying that having longer days can help reduce crime as well as boost retail sales and tourism dollars.  He encourages congress to approve this and “ditch the switch.”