Iowa Senate Bill SF90

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/25
• Refer: 1/22/25

Caption

A bill for an act establishing daylight saving time as the official time in this state throughout the year.

Impact

If enacted, SF90 will affect the way time is regulated throughout Iowa, impacting various sectors such as business, transportation, and public services. Eliminating the clock changes could lead to more consistent scheduling and potentially reduce confusion and accidents related to time discrepancies. Proponents of the bill argue that having a single, consistent time throughout the year may encourage economic benefits by simplifying operational hours for businesses and improving consumer behaviors.

Summary

Senate File 90 (SF90) aims to establish daylight saving time as the official time in Iowa year-round. This legislative measure seeks to amend existing laws relating to time definitions and policies, effectively eliminating the need to change clocks twice a year for daylight saving time. The bill outlines that daylight saving time, which includes advancing the clocks one hour from the first Sunday in April until the last Sunday in October, will now be the uniform standard for timekeeping in the state.

Conclusion

Overall, SF90 reflects a broader trend in state legislation to reconsider timekeeping practices in light of modern economic and social needs. As the legislature contemplates the bill, it will be essential to weigh the benefits of having a standardized time against the potential drawbacks associated with the elimination of standard time adjustments.

Contention

The primary points of contention surrounding SF90 involve considerations of health, safety, and traditional practices. Opponents may argue that permanent daylight saving time could disrupt natural circadian rhythms, leading to adverse health effects. There are also concerns regarding the adaptability of certain industries, especially those that rely heavily on time-sensitive operations. The discussion around the bill raises questions about how this change in timekeeping will align with neighboring states and the potential complications of differing time standards.