LANSING, Mich. — As the annual switch to daylight saving time approaches, state Sen. Thomas Albert is again seeking to let Michigan voters decide its future.
Albert, R-Lowell, this week introduced Senate Bill 126. If approved by the Michigan Legislature, SB 126 would put the question of whether to continue observing daylight saving time on the ballot for Michigan voters in the November 2026 election.
“Is switching to daylight saving time worth the headaches? Does it have any valid reason for continuing in this day and age?” Albert said. “I personally would say ‘no,’ but obviously opinions differ. We should let the people of Michigan decide once and for all.”
Daylight saving time for this year begins on Sunday, March 9, and runs until early November. Clocks are moved ahead one hour in the spring and moved back one hour in the fall.
Federal law allows states to opt out of daylight saving time, as Hawaii and Arizona have done. States are not allowed to remain on daylight saving time year-round, so the current choice is between observing the twice-a-year time change or remaining on standard time year-round.
Daylight saving time was first implemented in the U.S. during World War I and World War II, purportedly to reduce energy consumption. It was later set in federal law in 1966, with states having the ability to opt out.
Michigan voters rejected daylight saving time in 1968 and then permitted its establishment in 1972. Both votes were fairly close.
“The alleged benefits of daylight saving time — particularly when it comes to energy savings — are questionable at best,” Albert said. “I don’t believe the benefits are worth the disrupted sleep, and the possible health and safety concerns raised by the time change. It’s time to let voters decide.”
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