Daylight saving time began in most parts of the United States at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8. Clocks moved forward by one hour, creating a 23-hour day. The change affected daily routines such as travel to work and sleep schedules. Many Americans continue to question the system of changing clocks twice each year. A national poll shows that many people do not support the practice. Lawmakers and experts remain divided about whether the country should keep daylight saving time all year or return to standard time permanently.

Daylight saving time started as a way to use more evening daylight and possibly reduce energy use. Time zones in the United States were first organized in 1883 to help railroad schedules. Governments later used daylight saving time during several periods, including wartime. International records show that about 140 countries have used the system, although fewer countries still use it today. Some studies say sudden clock changes can affect sleep patterns and daily body cycles. Transportation research also shows a short increase in accidents after the spring clock change. Congress has discussed plans to create a permanent national time system, but leaders have not reached an agreement. For now, most parts of the United States continue changing clocks each spring and fall.