Why Orthodox Jews are opposing the new daylight saving bill in Congress
Orthodox Jewish organizations are opposing the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent. They argue that later sunrises would interfere with traditional morning prayer requirements and communal religious life.
Why it matters
This highlights the tension between secular legislative changes and the practical needs of religious communities.
(RNS) — Making daylight saving time permanent moved a step closer to reality this week, when the House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to pass a measure to eliminate the annual clock-changing ritual.
But some Orthodox Jewish organizations are fighting to prevent the bill from becoming law.
The measure, called the Sunshine Protection Act, passed in a 308-117 vote in the House on Tuesday (July 14). It now heads to the Senate, where its passage is uncertain. President Donald Trump has championed the effort, describing on his Truth Social account moving the clocks forward and back as a "ridiculous, twice yearly production."
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