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Georgia Senate Approves Year-Round Atlantic Standard Time Bill

3/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Georgia Senate passed HB 154, the Georgia Sunshine Protection Act, by a 45-5 vote.
The bill would switch Georgia to Atlantic Standard Time year-round.
The bill will return to the Georgia House for further consideration.
Senator Bo Hatchett (Georgia State Senator) said the change could reduce disruptions from clock changes.
Governor Brian Kemp would petition the U.S. Secretary of Transportation for the change if approved.

History

Historical Context

The Uniform Time Act of 1966 standardized daylight saving time (DST) in the U.S., following earlier attempts during World War I and II. In 1974, Congress enacted a trial for year-round DST to conserve energy during the oil crisis, but it ended early due to public safety concerns. The recent Georgia Senate bill reflects ongoing debates about time regulation, with many Americans favoring a permanent solution.

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Story summary

The Georgia Senate passed HB 154, the Georgia Sunshine Protection Act, by a 45-5 vote.
The bill would switch Georgia to Atlantic Standard Time year-round.
The bill will return to the Georgia House for further consideration.
Senator Bo Hatchett (Georgia State Senator) said the change could reduce disruptions from clock changes.
Governor Brian Kemp would petition the U.S. Secretary of Transportation for the change if approved.

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