Daylight Savings and the ‘Time Lords’ of Congress
We live in a world where time is both a construct and a commodity. We can create time, manipulate time, and even lose time. But ultimately, it is the politicians who hold the power to control time. From Congress to the Presidents, they have the authority to dictate the hour and the minute of what time it is. This is why we are once again springing forward this weekend, losing an hour of sleep in the process.
The concept of Daylight Saving Time dates back more than two centuries. Congress established Daylight Saving Time with the Uniform Time Act of 1966, in an effort to make better use of daylight hours. Before this, time varied greatly depending on the locality, leading to confusion and inefficiency. The establishment of time zones in the 1880s helped to coordinate schedules, especially for the railroads.
Lawmakers, like modern-day Time Lords from Doctor Who, have the power to change time itself. But not all lawmakers are in favor of the biannual time change. Some argue that Daylight Saving Time is outdated and no longer serves a purpose. However, for states like Florida, where outdoor activities and tourism are essential to the economy, the extra hour of daylight can make a significant difference.
There have been various attempts to end the time change, with bills introduced to mandate Daylight Saving Time year-round. Former President Trump had expressed his desire to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, citing its inconvenience and cost to the nation. However, the issue remains divisive, with concerns about the impact of changing the clocks on daily life.
Throughout history, Presidents have used their executive authority to adjust time during times of crisis. From President Roosevelt during World War II to President Nixon during the OPEC oil shocks, the manipulation of time has been a tool for maximizing daylight and energy efficiency.
Despite the efforts of lawmakers and Presidents, the debate over Daylight Saving Time continues. While some believe that ending the time change could unite Americans, others see it as a minor issue in the grand scheme of things. Ultimately, the decision to change the clocks in October and return to Standard Time will likely remain, at least for the time being.
In a world where time is both precious and malleable, the control of time by politicians highlights the intricate relationship between legislation and daily life. As Shakespeare once said, “let every man be master of his time.” But in reality, it is Congress and the Presidents who hold the power to shape our schedules and routines.
