Sat Oct 26 11:10:00 UTC 2024: **Summary of the Article:**

– **Clock Change Overview**: Americans will “fall back” on November 3, adjusting clocks from 2 a.m. to 1 a.m., marking the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST) and the start of Standard Time.
– **Duration of Time Periods**: Standard Time lasts for about 35% of the year, while DST lasts for 65% (238 days), as per the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
– **History**: The practice began in the U.S. in 1918 but was short-lived. It was reintroduced during World War II and standardized in 1966 under the Uniform Time Act.
– **Public Opinion**: A 2023 poll revealed that 62% of Americans favor eliminating the biannual clock changes, with 50% preferring permanent DST. Despite several legislative attempts to end the clock changes, none have been successful in 2023.
– **Legislation Attempts**: The Sunshine Protection Act, which would make DST permanent, has support but remains stalled in committee. In 2023, 75 legislative proposals to eliminate clock changes were introduced across 29 states.
– **Health Considerations**: Experts point out that standard time may be better for health, improving sleep, mood, and reducing accidents. The mismatch between societal schedules and natural daylight is a concern for sleep specialists.
– **Quotes from Experts**: Dr. Karin Johnson emphasized that standard time aligns better with natural circadian rhythms, as people’s bodies respond to actual sunlight rather than clock time.

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