California Could Eliminate Daylight Saving Time

CALIFORNIA -- California voters could have the option of eliminating daylight saving time after the state Senate approved a measure last week. Assembly Bill 807, introduced by Assemblyman Kansen Chu (D-San Jose), asks lawmakers to allow voters to consider repealing the Daylight Saving Time Act, which was approved in 1949.

Chu first introduced the bill last year, calling the practice outdated.

“It is a practice I aim to eliminate with AB 807, my bill that will implement critical first steps to move California to enjoy year round daylight saving time,” Chu said. “The practice of switching our clocks originated from World War I as a means to save energy. Studies today illustrate that there is little to no energy savings. In reality, switching our clocks twice a year directly impacts our health, as well as leads to increased crime and traffic."

This isn't the first time a lawmaker attempted to scrap the Daylight Saving Time Act. A similar bill was proposed in 2016, but the state Senate rejected the measure.

"The new proposal would have to clear the Senate and the Assembly and receive the governor’s signature. Then Congress would have to take action to sanction the law and allow states to adopt a year-round daylight saving time," the Sacramento Bee reported. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

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