Bill > S4084

Introduced Session

This bill requires the State of New Jersey to permanently observe standard time by ending the observance of daylight saving time. For four months, the standard time of New Jersey is Eastern Standard Time, or five hours offset from Coordinated Universal Time. Under current law, from 2:00 A.M. on the second Sunday in March until 2:00 A.M. on the first Sunday in November, the State participates in the one-hour advancement of time, commonly referred to as "daylight saving time." Studies have shown that this shift in time has certain negative consequences, including millions of dollars in estimated economic losses due to decreased productivity, increased healthcare costs, and increased workplace injuries; increased risks of cardiological issues including heart attack, stroke, and atrial fibrillation; reduction in sleep quality which has been attributed to a notable increase in automobile accidents, including fatal accidents; and adverse effects on mental health, including increased rates of mood disorders and suicide. Remaining permanently on standard time has been shown to provide the ideal alignment with human circadian biology, and in turn, promotes public health, provides increased safety, and enhances economic productivity. Due to the negative ramifications associated with the time shifts and the notable benefits of permanent standard time, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recommended that the United States should eliminate seasonal time changes in favor of a national fixed year-round time. This bill would take effect immediately if the date of enactment falls outside of daylight saving time. If enactment occurs during daylight saving time, this bill would take effect immediately following the end of daylight saving time.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Shirley Turner (D)*, 

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee (on 02/03/2025)

Official Document