As the Senate weighs legislation to make daylight saving time permanent, the golf industry is stepping up its support, arguing that eliminating the twice-a-year clock change would be a boon for the sport and the broader economy.
The Sunshine Protection Act, which would keep clocks set to daylight saving time year-round, has gained momentum in recent months. If enacted, the U.S. would no longer fall back to standard time in November, a shift that would mean later sunrises and sunsets during the winter months.
Industry leaders say the change would be particularly beneficial for golf courses and related businesses, which see a significant drop in play during the darker months. According to a report from the National Golf Foundation, extending daylight saving time could generate an additional $200 million to $400 million in annual retail sales and green fees, as more people would be able to play after work.
"When the clocks go back, it feels like the season ends abruptly," said one industry executive, who asked not to be named. "Permanent daylight saving time would keep the momentum going well into the winter, which is huge for courses in northern states."
Supporters also point to the economic ripple effects: more rounds mean more spending on equipment, apparel, and travel, which could bolster local economies in golf-dependent regions. The travel industry has also expressed interest, as longer daylight hours could encourage more weekend trips.
But the proposal faces opposition from various quarters. Health experts have warned that permanent daylight saving time could disrupt sleep patterns, especially in northern latitudes where winter sunrises would come as late as 8:30 a.m. or later. Religious groups have raised concerns about the impact on morning prayers and services, while some safety advocates worry about children waiting for school buses in the dark.
These concerns echo past debates. The U.S. tried year-round daylight saving time in the 1970s, but the experiment was cut short after public backlash over dark winter mornings. Yet proponents argue that today's economy—and the growing popularity of evening activities—makes the case stronger.
The golf industry's lobbying effort has been bolstered by a coalition of outdoor recreation and retail groups, who see permanent daylight saving time as a way to boost evening daylight hours and consumer spending. They have found allies in lawmakers from both parties, though the bill's path remains uncertain.
As the Senate prepares to take up the measure, the golf industry is making its voice heard. "We've seen the data," said another industry insider. "This is about more than just golf—it's about maximizing the time Americans have to enjoy the outdoors and support local businesses."
For now, the clock is ticking. If the Senate acts quickly, the U.S. could be on the verge of a permanent shift—one that the golf industry hopes will be a hole-in-one.
