Support Us Button Widget

Will we always change the clock?

Daylight saving time has been around as early as 1918, and many legislators across the country are looking to change that.

An analogue clock with several timezones (Bangkok, Tokyo, Sydney, Beijing, etc.)

At least our phones and computers set their clocks for us.

Photo by Iana Pugachova via Pexels

It’s time to set the clock forward — daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. local time this Sunday, March 12.

So far, only two states opt out of daylight saving time (or DST) — Arizona and Hawaii — but changes could be on the horizon for our local clocks as well. Many states have made moves towards “year-round daylight saving time” which would mean no longer changing the clocks twice a year (each spring and each fall) by permanently adjusting everyone’s time zone forward by one hour.

Want to learn more? You can read up on which states have introduced DST laws, bills, and resolutions, and see where permanent DST bills have failed. (Our state is on the list.)

So why are we still moving the clock? Well, federal law doesn’t yet allow permanent DST. So, even if the state approves, it’s up to Congress to set the clocks… so the DST debate is something we’ll have to sleep on.

For now, if you can’t remember which direction to set the clock, remember: Spring forward and fall back. Or, maybe we should make like the astronauts and tell time by the moon.

More from RICtoday
Escape the cold and snow by taking one of these affordable flights to a new city.
Metro Richmond Zoo is putting their new pgymy hippos — Iris and Poppy — front and center on its daily live stream feed on YouTube.
Take a look at these locally owned classic diners in Richmond, Virginia that are serving plates of comfort food.
Here are some ideas to help get you on your way to some commons goals for the new year in our city.
The City of Richmond is hosting a Day of Service on Saturday, Jan. 11, aiming to bring important resources to in-need areas.
Richmond will be star-studded at the start of 2025 with a wide range of concerts and shows taking place in the winter season.
These regulations will impact employee benefits, health care, and the services available to Virginia residents in 2025.
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is investing billions to build the power plant at the James River Industrial Center.
Whether you’re interested in local news, music, sports, or wellness, there’s a River City podcast for you.
Let us know what we should cover in the River City in 2025.