Get Ready to ‘Fall Back’ in 2023: Daylight Saving Time Ends

The year 2023 brings the conclusion of Daylight Saving Time (DST). So, when exactly do the clocks change? Are we gaining or losing an hour, and is DST ending for good? Let’s make it all clear and easy to understand.

When is the Time Change for DST in 2023 in the United States?

In participating states, Daylight Saving Time wraps up on the first Sunday of November each year, when we ‘fall back.’ In spring, we ‘spring forward’ by turning the clocks ahead one hour on the second Sunday in March.

When Do We ‘Fall Back’ in 2023 for DST?

This year, the clocks officially ‘fall back’ at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 5, 2023.

Do I Gain or Lose an Hour of Sleep on November 5 for Daylight Saving Time?

When we ‘fall back,’ the clocks are turned back at 2 a.m., giving us an extra hour of sleep if we desire. It’s a welcome change! Remember that in the spring when DST begins again, we ‘spring forward’ one hour in March, meaning we lose an hour of sleep.

Why Does the Time Change at 2 a.m. for Daylight Saving Time?

The decision to change the time at 2 a.m. for DST goes back to historical reasons. Author Michael Downing, in his book ‘Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time,’ explained that Amtrak and the railroads played a significant role. At the time when DST was introduced, there were no trains departing at 2 a.m. on Sundays in New York City, making it the least disruptive time for train travel across the country.

Which U.S. States Don’t Observe Daylight Saving Time?

As of July 25, 2022, Hawaii and parts of Arizona are exceptions; they do not participate in Daylight Saving Time. The Navajo Nation in Arizona follows a different rule. Additionally, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands also do not participate. States have the authority to exempt themselves from observing DST according to the Uniform Time Act.

Is There a Permanent End in Sight for Daylight Saving Time?

Despite unanimous approval of the Sunshine Protection Act by the U.S. Senate in 2022, there’s no permanent end in sight. The bill was not signed into law by the U.S. House of Representatives, citing other pressing priorities. This means it hasn’t been signed into law by President Joe Biden. Efforts to reach a consensus on DST continue to face challenges, mainly related to geographical issues rather than political party lines. Finding a consensus remains a challenge, as people have differing opinions on whether to stick with standard or daylight saving time.

Looking Ahead to Daylight Saving Time in 2024

In 2024, mark your calendars for the time changes: clocks will ‘spring forward’ on Sunday, March 10, and ‘fall back’ on November 3. Be prepared for more daylight or an extra hour of sleep, depending on the season!