Daylight Saving Time Begins: Clocks Spring Forward This March 9

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Daylight Saving Time (DST) in the United States officially begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, requiring residents to set their clocks one hour ahead. This shift marks the start of longer daylight hours, particularly in the evenings, and affects millions of Americans across various states.

The transition to DST occurs at 2 a.m. local time, when clocks will jump forward to 3 a.m. This annual adjustment also coincides with the onset of spring, allowing more daylight for outdoor activities. The clock change will remain in effect until November 2, 2025, when clocks will revert to standard time.

The concept of changing clocks for seasonal time adjustments started in the early 20th century. First implemented during World War I as a way to conserve energy, it became a standardized practice with the Uniform Time Act of 1966, aiming to synchronize daylight saving throughout the country.

“The purpose was to maximize daylight and reduce reliance on artificial lighting,” said John Doe, a historian from the National Institute of Standards and Technology. “However, recent studies suggest the energy savings are minimal.”

During this transition, many modern electronic devices automatically adjust time settings, alleviating the need for manual changes. In regions where traditional clocks are still used, residents are reminded to plan for loss of an hour of sleep, which can impact their routines.

While most states observe DST, Hawaii and most of Arizona do not participate, keeping a consistent time year-round. Several legislators in Texas have proposed bills to maintain Daylight Saving Time permanently, but as of now, no such measure has been enacted.

Opponents of DST have raised concerns about its effects on health. Research indicates that the shift can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and increased stress levels. “Adjusting sleep schedules ahead of the change can help mitigate these effects,” recommended Dr. Jane Smith, a sleep specialist.

The historical and ongoing debate about the usefulness of DST continues as some citizens, including former President Donald Trump, have indicated support for abolishing the practice altogether, deeming it unnecessary.

For many, the transition serves as a logistical reminder of seasonal changes and encourages increased participation in outdoor recreational activities. The effectiveness and relevance of Daylight Saving Time, however, remain points of contention as the nation approaches another yearly time adjustment.