What seems like an innocent enough question elicits strong reactions among Maine’s people. The problem might be in the way the question has been phrased. Much of the media coverage and ensuing web- and Facebook-based polls ask the question: Should Maine change time zones to Atlantic Standard Time?

Unfortunately, many people do not realize that the Eastern Standard Time (EST) is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and when observing Daylight Saving Time (DST) from March 12, 2017 through November 5, 2017, those of us in the EST will be four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time, which is the same as Atlantic Standard Time. Perhaps if those being asked the question were aware of this fact, it might change their minds about their answer.

LD 71 seeks to move Maine to Atlantic Standard Time, which means Maine residents would spring ahead in March as with other states that observe Daylight Saving Time; but come fall, Maine would not “fall back.” As a result, Maine would be one hour ahead of its neighbors in the Eastern Standard Time zone and sunsets would be observed an hour later.

For those people concerned that this would put Maine at odds with the rest of the New England states, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has created a commission to study the practical, economic, fiscal and health-related impacts of remaining on Atlantic Standard Time year-round. A report is due out in March. The state of New Hampshire has submitted legislation to consider adopting Atlantic Standard Time should Massachusetts move forward with adoption. It would be up to the committee of jurisdiction if they would like to add a caveat that this time change would only be considered or applicable should those two New England states adopt Atlantic Standard Time.

The motivation for this initiative is more than just the annoyance some may have with the changing of their clocks. For many, that twice yearly disruption causes anxiety compounded by disruption to one’s natural circadian rhythm. Reverting to Eastern Standard Time during the winter when there is already a lack of daylight hours also adds to the symptoms of those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. There are also studies that show added energy savings throughout the winter months.

Those reasons alone provide for why we should have a serious conversation about what time observance is best for the people of Maine.

Rep. Kathleen Dillingham, R-Oxford, represents House District 72, which includes the towns of Oxford, Mechanic Falls and Otisfield.

Kathleen Dillingham

Kathleen Dillingham