The motion to eliminate Daylight Savings in the state of Virginia failed in the senate. Proposed by Senator Richard H. Stuart, this bill would have meant that Virginia would stick to a standard time year round instead of changing the clocks twice a year. 

The United States originally introduced Daylight Savings during World War I and II to conserve energy. The idea was if the days were longer, artificial light would be used less. Since then, the time during which Daylight Savings occurs has changed twice. However, the official time to change the clocks in the US has remained unchanged since 2007; it starts the second Sunday in March and ends the first Sunday in November. 

While the reason for Daylight Savings is debatable in the modern day because America is no longer fighting in a World War, there are still some benefits. One pro is the longer evenings in the spring and summer, which leaves more time for recreational activities. Crime rates also decreased 7%  during this time due to the fact that it’s light outside longer. 

However, there are also cons. Besides everyone having to change the clocks twice a year, Daylight Savings Time can also have negative effects on health. A common issue caused by Daylight Savings is seasonal depression; because it gets darker earlier in the fall and winter months, many peoples’ moods are affected. Sunlight has many benefits on mood as well as other aspects of human health.  The absence of sunlight and changing sleep schedules also messes with people’s circadian rhythm. One study shows that risk of heart attack goes up 10% on the Monday and Tuesday following the spring time change.