Introduction
Have you ever heard someone say, “spring forward, fall back?” If so, you’re likely familiar with the concept of daylight savings time (DST). While most of the United States observes DST, there are a few states that choose not to. In this article, we’ll explore which states do not have daylight savings and why certain states choose to opt out of the practice.
List of States that Do Not Observe Daylight Savings
The following states do not observe daylight savings time:
- Arizona
- Hawaii
- Puerto Rico
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- American Samoa
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
It’s worth noting that some states have areas that do observe DST, while others don’t. For example, in Indiana, some counties observe DST, while others don’t. Additionally, some states have proposed bills to opt out of DST, which would make them join the list above.
There are various reasons why certain states don’t follow DST. Some argue that it increases energy consumption, while others cite medical studies that link DST to disrupted sleep patterns. Still, others point out that it has little impact on certain industries and that the time change can be confusing for travelers and those who live near state borders.
Pros and Cons of Daylight Savings in States
Those who support DST argue that it promotes outdoor activities and can lead to greater tourist activity. Others say it helps save energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting and easing the load on power grids. However, critics argue that it can have a negative impact on productivity and even lead to an increase in health problems like heart attacks and strokes.
As previously mentioned, some states have abolished DST entirely. For example, in 2018, Florida passed the “Sunshine Protection Act,” which would keep the state on DST year-round so that Floridians could enjoy more sunlight. However, this legislation would only go into effect if Congress approves it and allows states to observe DST year-round.
The History of Daylight Savings in the U.S.
The concept of DST originated in ancient civilizations, which would adjust their daily schedules to better match the sun’s movements. In modern times, Benjamin Franklin first proposed the idea of adjusting time to conserve candles in the 1700s, but the U.S. didn’t formally adopt DST until 1918. After a period of confusion and lack of standardization, the Uniform Time Act was passed in 1966, which established a standardized system for DST throughout the country.
Since then, there have been various attempts to change DST policies in the U.S. In the 1970s, DST was established for a longer period of time to help address a fuel shortage crisis. More recently, some bills have been proposed to make DST year-round, citing the positive effects of more daylight in the evenings. However, it’s unclear what the future of DST in the U.S. will look like.
How States’ Exemptions from Daylight Savings Affects Travelers
If you’ve ever traveled to a state that doesn’t follow DST, you might have experienced confusion with scheduling. For example, if you’re traveling from Arizona to California during DST, you’ll need to adjust your schedule by one hour when you cross the state border. To avoid confusion, it’s important to be aware of the different time zones within states, especially if you’re traveling for work.
Similarly, businesses that operate across state lines might need to adjust their schedules depending on which states they work in. For example, if you’re scheduling a conference call between two offices in different states, you’ll need to take into account the time change if one is in a DST state and the other is not.
Observing Native Culture and Traditions
Native populations have influenced DST policies in certain areas of the U.S. For example, the Navajo Nation in Arizona doesn’t observe DST because it interferes with their traditional ceremonies. In fact, the Navajo Nation spans three different states and two different time zones, making it important for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the time differences.
Comparing Statistics and Economic Benefits of Daylight Savings
Studies have shown that DST can have both economic benefits and drawbacks. For example, one study found that DST can reduce crime rates and increase economic activity in certain industries. However, another study found that DST can increase energy consumption and lead to health problems. Additionally, businesses that operate across state lines might need to adjust their schedules depending on which states they work in. For example, if you’re scheduling a conference call between two offices in different states, you’ll need to take into account the time change if one is in a DST state and the other is not.
Conclusion
While most of the U.S. observes daylight savings, there are a few states that choose not to. The reasons behind this vary, with some citing energy conservation and others citing medical concerns. However, the impact of DST on businesses and travelers is important to consider, especially in areas where time zones change based on state borders. The future of DST in the U.S. is unclear, but it’s worth staying informed about different states’ policies and how they might impact our daily schedules.