Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB796

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/14/23

Caption

Amending the act of April 13, 1887 (P.L.21, No.18), entitled "An act for the establishment of a uniform standard of time throughout the Commonwealth," providing for atlantic standard time; and prohibiting the use of daylight saving time.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would officially alter the state's timekeeping practices and potentially synchronize Pennsylvania's time with Atlantic Standard Time. This change is considered significant for businesses and government operations, which would need to adjust their scheduling and operations accordingly. The prohibition of daylight saving time aligns Pennsylvania with certain states that have opted out of this practice, simplifying time management for residents and businesses alike.

Summary

SB796 proposes amendments to the existing legislation regarding time standards in the Commonwealth. The bill aims to establish Atlantic Standard Time as the standard time throughout the state while prohibiting the use of daylight saving time. This change would impact various aspects of daily life, including business hours, scheduling, and transportation logistics, as communities adapt to a new time standard that would not shift seasonally.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB796 appears to be a mixture of support and concern. Proponents argue that doing away with daylight saving time and adopting a uniform standard is beneficial for public health and safety, minimizing the confusion and disruption associated with biannual time changes. Conversely, some opponents question the necessity of such a change, arguing that it could have unintended consequences on various sectors accustomed to the current timekeeping practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential economic impact on businesses that operate on a schedule aligned with daylight saving time and the adaptability of residents to a new time standard. Critics raise concerns about the coordination with neighboring states and how unified time standards could affect everything from transportation schedules to interactions with interstate businesses. Discussions may also touch on public opinion regarding the elimination of daylight saving time and whether it truly benefits the community at large.