While states debate the annual switch from standard time to daylight saving time,  the United States should switch to just standard time year-round.

Standard time is the period when it’s brighter in the mornings and darker in the early evenings. This is preferrable for students and early commuters who wake early to drive and are able to sleep when it’s dark outside. It is also safer for younger children to get on the morning bus when the sun is out.

Additionally, standard time should be year-round because the switch from daylight saving to standard time has been proven to have negative health consequences. For example, the switch harms sleep schedules, which can lead to an increase in mental health problems. 

Standard time marks the clear difference between morning and night – it should be light in the morning and dark at night, but the extra hour from daylight saving time leads to people to waking in darkness and getting ready for bed while the sun is out.

Additionally, standard time is better for students and workers who go to bed early and wake up early. They benefit from the early darkness at night and the early light of the morning.

Opponents argue daylight saving time allows people to do more activities and spend more money after the working day, which benefits the economy. During standard time, the sun is already setting by the end of a  9 a.m. to 5 p.m. shift; but during daylight saving time, people can go shopping, go out to eat and drive in the daylight after work or school.

However, the switch from daylight saving time to standard time harms people’s inner clocks. Therefore we should stop the switch and remain permanently on standard time.