Establishes daylight saving time as the year-round standard time of the state and the city of New York.
Summary
Bill S03380 seeks to amend the general construction law and the administrative code of the city of New York to establish daylight saving time as the year-round standard time for both the state and the city. This change would eliminate the biannual clock adjustments currently observed in New York, aligning the state's timekeeping with eastern daylight saving time if federal law permits. The bill outlines that the standard time will be determined by federal law, specifically referencing 15 USC sections 260 to 267.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly alter how time is regulated in New York, affecting all legal and official proceedings that rely on standard time. It would require adjustments to various state and city operations, including court schedules, public transportation, and other time-sensitive activities. The bill's implementation is contingent upon similar legislation being enacted by neighboring states, including Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, indicating a regional approach to time standardization.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S03380 appears to be mixed, with some support for the elimination of the time change due to potential benefits such as increased daylight in the evenings and improved public health outcomes. However, there are concerns regarding the synchronization with neighboring states and the potential confusion that could arise from differing time standards across state lines.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the necessity of coordinating with neighboring states to ensure a uniform time standard, as well as the potential impacts on various sectors that rely on precise timekeeping. Some legislators express concerns about the practicality of the change and the readiness of public systems to adapt to a year-round daylight saving time.
Amending the act of April 13, 1887 (P.L.21, No.18), entitled "An act for the establishment of a uniform standard of time throughout the Commonwealth," observing daylight saving time year-around if authorized by the Congress of the United States.