Clocks change for the last time as Daylight Saving Time returns on Sunday. Millions affected.

Millions will move clocks forward on Sunday as daylight saving time begins across much of the United States. The seasonal change again raises debate about ending clock shifts while some regions already move toward permanent daylight saving time.

On Sunday, March 8, the majority of the United States will observe the beginning of daylight saving time, with clocks moving forward by one hour at 2 a.m. local time. This marks the biannual transition between standard time and daylight saving time, a practice that continues to spark debate regarding whether the U.S. should maintain clock changes or adopt a permanent time schedule.

In contrast, residents of British Columbia, Canada, will experience this Sunday as the final instance of clock adjustment. The province recently enacted legislation to adopt daylight saving time year-round, eliminating the need for the traditional twice-yearly clock changes. Provincial authorities stated that maintaining daylight saving time permanently offers several benefits, including reduced disruptions for families, simplified scheduling, and an additional hour of evening daylight during the winter months. The decision was based on a public survey in which 93% of respondents expressed support for a year-round daylight saving schedule. With this change, British Columbia joins Saskatchewan as the only other Canadian province not following biannual clock adjustments.

In the United States, any permanent change to the current daylight saving system would require federal legislation. Multiple proposals have been suggested to modify national clock practices. Among them is the Daylight Act of 2026, introduced on February 4, 2026, in the House of Representatives. The legislation proposes a permanent shift of clocks by 30 minutes, aiming to create a compromise between standard time and daylight saving time. Currently, the bill has not been scheduled for a vote. Another proposal, the Sunshine Protection Act, seeks to make daylight saving time permanent throughout the year. Like the Daylight Act, it has not yet been enacted into law. A nationwide adjustment would need approval from both the House and Senate before receiving presidential authorization.

Alongside adjusting clocks, this period is recommended for several household maintenance tasks. Homeowners are encouraged to reverse ceiling fans to maintain cooler indoor temperatures as spring approaches. The annual "Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries" initiative highlights the importance of replacing smoke detector batteries to ensure proper functionality. Furnace and heat pump filters should also be replaced, as they may accumulate dust and debris during winter months, particularly in homes with pets. Additionally, emergency kits should be restocked in preparation for the spring severe weather season.

As millions of people in the United States prepare to advance their clocks this Sunday, residents of British Columbia will undergo the final official time change. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers continue to evaluate legislative proposals that could potentially alter or eliminate daylight saving time in the future.

Sources:

• Daylight saving time returns Sunday. For millions, it will be the last time the clocks change
• Daylight Savings Time To Become Permanent For Millions
• B.C. adopts permanent daylight saving time, influenced by 'recent actions from the U.S.'

Author: Ava Mitchell
Ava Mitchell is a journalist covering culture, art, and literature. She is known for her creative approach and ability to produce in-depth features and interviews.