Twice every year, Americans change their clocks—but should we?

Should the United States eliminate Daylight Saving Time? More importantly, if we do, should we adopt permanent Daylight Saving Time or permanent Standard Time?

As Congress debates the Sunshine Protection Act, Karin Johnson, MD discusses the health, safety, and productivity implications of our current system, the scientific evidence behind permanent Standard Time, and what citizens can do if they want to influence future legislation.

In this episode of SleepTech Talk, we sit down with Dr. Karin Johnson, one of the nation's leading sleep medicine experts and advocates for permanent Standard Time, to discuss the growing national debate surrounding the Sunshine Protection Act.

Dr. Johnson explains the science behind our circadian rhythms, why many sleep medicine organizations support permanent Standard Time instead of permanent Daylight Saving Time, and what everyday citizens can do to make their voices heard.

In this episode you'll learn:

• The difference between Daylight Saving Time and Standard Time
• The pros and cons of ending the twice-yearly clock changes
• Why many physicians believe permanent Standard Time is healthier
• How time changes affect sleep, productivity, mood, and public safety
• Where non-healthcare professionals can learn more
• How you can contact your elected officials about the issue

Dr. Karin Johnson serves as Vice President of Save Standard Time and co-chairs the Coalition for Permanent Standard Time, representing leading medical organizations including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the National Sleep Foundation. She has also testified before the U.S. Senate regarding the health implications of permanent Daylight Saving Time.

Learn More

• https://ditchdst.com/
• https://savestandardtime.com/

If this conversation was valuable, please consider contacting your U.S. Senator and sharing your thoughts on the future of Daylight Saving Time legislation.

💬 Share your opinion in the comments: Should the U.S. adopt permanent Standard Time or permanent Daylight Saving Time?

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of sleep medicine and sleep technology.

#Sleep #DaylightSavingTime #StandardTime #SleepMedicine #SleepHealth #CircadianRhythm #SleepApnea #SleepTechTalk #SunshineProtectionAct #HealthPolicy #SleepScience

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs.

A huge thanks to our sponsors:

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More resources for clinicians can be found at Sleep Review Magazine  

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Learn more about the show at 

https://www.sleeptechtalk.com/thetechroom

Credits:

Audio/ Video: Diego R Mannikarote; Music: Pierce G Mannikarote

Hosts: J. Emerson Kerr, Robert Miller, Gerald George Mannikarote

Copyright: ⓒ 2026 SleepTech Talk Productions

Episode 128

The views and opinions expressed by guests on SleepTech Talk are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast hosts or SleepTech Talk as a whole. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns or questions.