Chairman Guthrie Delivers Opening Remarks at Committee on Rules Hearing on Sunshine Protection Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, delivered the following opening statement at today’s Committee on Rules hearing on the Sunshine Protection Act.

Chairman Guthrie's opening statement as prepared for delivery:

“Thank you for the opportunity to testify on H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act.

“This legislation makes daylight saving time permanent nationwide and removes the twice-annual changing of the clocks.

“Americans are overwhelmingly supportive of this policy and want to end the practice of ‘springing forward’ and ‘falling back.’ Locking the clock all year long would have positive impacts on sleep schedules, energy conservation, motor vehicle safety, and our economy.

“Nineteen states have proactively enacted legislation to observe daylight saving time year-round once Congress allows them to do so. The American Farm Bureau and other industries are also supportive of permanent DST because of the practical and economic benefits.

“In practice, this change would mean more time for people to exercise outside, visit family, attend concerts and sporting events, attract customers to their retail businesses, and more.

“It also means more sunlight at the end of the day so Americans can return safely from work and children can return safely from school.

“Thank you again for inviting me to testify, and I look forward to answering any questions you may have.”