'A relic of a bygone era': Here's why readers want Massachusetts to stop changing its clocks

"It's a relic of a bygone era that does more harm than good. We mustn't be afraid to move on just because it's always been that way. Supporters of the proposal say the clock change disrupts daily routines and sleep schedules, while research has linked the shift to short-term spikes in heart attacks, strokes, and other health issues."

"Twice a year my sleep/wake cycle is disrupted for no apparent good reason. Several readers said the clock change itself - rather than the specific time zone - is the real problem, describing the adjustment as disruptive to sleep and daily routines."

"The bill (S.2157) proposes moving the state to a permanent Atlantic standard time system instead, but only if two or more New England states adopt the same time system. Though most were in favor of ending the practice, many readers differed on which time system the state should adopt permanently."

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering legislation to eliminate the biannual clock change, with Senate President Karen Spilka supporting a bill proposing permanent Atlantic standard time if other New England states adopt it. An informal poll of Boston.com readers showed 83% favor ending the practice, citing disruptions to sleep and daily routines. Research links the clock shift to increased heart attacks and strokes. While most readers support stopping the changes, they diverge on whether the state should maintain daylight saving time's later evening hours or switch to standard time. The bill is under review in the state Senate's rules committee.

Read at Boston.com