Support Us Button Widget

Will we always change the clock?

Daylight saving time has been around as early as 1918, and many legislators across the country are looking to change that.

An analogue clock with several timezones (Bangkok, Tokyo, Sydney, Beijing, etc.)

At least our phones and computers set their clocks for us.

Photo by Iana Pugachova via Pexels

It’s time to set the clock forward — Daylight saving begins at 2 a.m. local time this Sunday, March 12.

So far, only two states opt out of daylight saving time (or DST) — Arizona and Hawaii — but changes could be on the horizon for our local clocks as well. Many states have made moves towards “year-round daylight saving time” which would mean no longer changing the clocks twice a year (each spring and each fall) by permanently adjusting everyone’s time zone forward by one hour.

Want to learn more? You can read up on which states have introduced DST laws, bills, and resolutions, and see where permanent DST bills have failed.

So why are we still moving the clock? Well, federal law doesn’t yet allow permanent DST. So, even if the state approves, it’s up to Congress to set the clocks… so the DST debate is something we’ll have to sleep on.

For now, if you can’t remember which direction to set the clock, remember: Spring forward and fall back. Or, maybe we should make like the astronauts and tell time by the moon.

More from ATXtoday
From historic landmarks to rooftop bars, this guide rounds up the must-try restaurants, sights, and nightlife spots that make the Capital City shine.
Austin’s housing market has been a roller coaster ride for the last five years, but this time, it’s swinging back in favor of buyers.
Austin’s plethora of delightful food festivals offer something for everyone, so only one question remains: Which should you attend first?
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
The City of Austin is asking residents to vote on a property tax increase that would generate ~$109.5 million to go toward the new fiscal year budget.
The Downtown community center has agreed to sell some of its land for new housing while expanding and building a new facility.
The big race is almost here, and even if you don’t have tickets to watch in person, you can catch the race in style at one of these admission-free parties.
The 2025 Great American Beer Festival awards are here and Austin-area brews took home the gold, so get ready to taste them for yourself.
At these 10 miniature art galleries in the Austin area, you can take a piece of art or leave one for your neighbors to love.
The store finds vacant retail spaces and signs temporary leases to set up shop leading up to Halloween — but locations can change each year.