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
A new study from real estate firm Franklin Street states that 14.8 million sqft of commercial space in Downtown Austin is empty.
Join us in being thankful for Austin’s foodie community, which has shared some of their favorite Thanksgiving recipes to make your table a little more local.
A new wine styles selector tool can help you find your new favorite wine made from Texas Hill Country-grown grapes.
The new Shine On campaign will bring major changes to the tune of $65 million to both historic theaters starting this summer.
Austin Public Library will begin to sell its retired material out of its branches instead of the one central used bookstore.
Did you know the city and county provide interactive GIS maps of Austin to connect you to resources and help you get to know your communities?
This list of volunteer opportunities in Austin, TX includes everything from building homes for people in need to fostering shelter animals.
Austin is home to some ancient history, including gigantic aquatic lizards, prehistoric humans, and dinosaur tracks uncovered by flooding.
The 2025 celebration of gooey, golden goodness is this weekend in Bee Cave, and we’re ready to chow down to this year’s tropical-themed bites.
Take Turkey Day easy with dishes from these local restaurants.