FRANKFORT, Ky. - Should “spring forward” and “fall back” be history?

Two Kentucky lawmakers think so.  A newly pre-filed bill would make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent in Kentucky.

The measure, BR 181, filed by Rep. Bart Rowland, R-Tompkinsville and Rep. Brandon Reed, R-Hodgenville, would only go into effect if Congress passes a federal law allowing states to observe daylight saving time year-round.

Rowland and Reed say ending the practice of the changing the clocks in March and November, Kentuckians would have more evening daylight hours during the winter months.

“Studies show that adding more light at the end of the day improves everything from traffic safety to crime and the use of electricity. I think it’s time for Kentucky to join the conversation on whether or not we’re willing to do away with the antiquated practice of changing clocks,” Rowland said in a release.

If passed during the 2020 session, Kentucky would join an increasing number of states pushing to make DST permanent. Tennessee recently enacted legislation to do so.

“After discussing this issue at length with my constituents and seeing our neighbor to the south pass this legislation, I am convinced that it’s time for Kentucky to strongly make our voice heard,” Reed said in a release. “Kentucky should be the next state to lead on this issue and pass this legislation, which will also pressure Congress to act.”

Florida was the first state to vote to make this permanent in 2018, with similar measures being proposed in Oregon and Washington. Federally, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, has introduced legislation making DST permanent throughout the country.

A copy of the bill can be found here.