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Texas lawmakers are putting Daylight Saving Time up for debate.
Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) filed Senate Bill 2029 (SB 2029) and Senate Joint Resolution 67 (SJR 67) this week. If passed, Texans would be able to vote in the Nov. 4 elections on whether they prefer observing Standard Time year-round, or DST year-round.
“For years, Texans and Americans have debated clock changes, questioning their impact on health, safety, and the economy,” Senator Bettencourt said. “This bill puts the decision in Texans’ hands, just like Arizona and Hawaii, allowing them to choose the time standard that best suits our state’s unique needs.”
If the majority vote is for standard time, Texas will exempt itself from federal DST requirements. If the majority votes for year-round DST, Texas will adopt it but only if Congress passes a law allowing states to make the change.
“Texas families and businesses deserve the opportunity to voice their preference on this matter,” Bettencourt added.
Both the Texas Senate and House of Representatives will consider the bill. If passed, Texans will see the referendum question on their ballots in the General Election this November. The chosen time standard would take effect on January 1, 2026 if voters approve it.
Our clocks will "spring forward" one hour on Sunday.