Orthodox Jewish groups warn House-passed daylight saving bill would disrupt religious practice

Orthodox Jewish organizations are expressing concern over the U.S. House-passed "Sunshine Protection Act," which aims to make daylight saving time permanent. They warn that this legislation would significantly disrupt daily religious observance, particularly morning prayers, which must be recited at specific times according to Jewish law. Rabbi A.D. Motzen of Agudath Israel of America stated, "The extension of daylight saving time will create an extreme hardship on observant Jews."

• The bill, passed by a 308-117 vote, now moves to the Senate.
• Opponents argue that later sunrises would force later synagogue services, making it difficult for individuals to meet work and school obligations.
• Concerns also include potential safety issues for children traveling to school in the dark during winter months.
• While acknowledging that proponents aim to end twice-yearly clock changes, groups like the Coalition for Jewish Values and the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center are advocating for the bill to stall in the Senate, suggesting year-round standard time as a less problematic alternative.