Washington Lawmakers Pre-File Bills Ahead of 2025 Session

On December 4, 2024, Washington lawmakers began pre-filing bills for the upcoming 2025 legislative session, starting January 13. A key focus is a bipartisan effort led by Senators Jeff Wilson and Manka Dhingra to eliminate the biannual clock switch associated with daylight saving time through Senate Bill 5001. This proposed legislation aims to establish permanent standard time in Washington, which does not require federal approval, unlike the 2019 law for permanent daylight saving time. Wilson describes the clock changes as a nuisance but recognizes the challenges ahead, particularly in coordinating with neighboring states to ensure synchronized times. The article also highlights the ongoing debate among experts regarding the health impacts of permanent standard versus daylight saving time.

This pre-filing marks the start of a 105-day legislative process where lawmakers will work to advance their proposals, reflecting public interest in timekeeping reforms.