The bill, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, proposes to allow Texas to observe either standard time or daylight saving time year-round, contingent upon the results of a statewide referendum. The bill amends Section 312.016 of the Government Code by adding two new subsections. The first insertion allows the state to observe standard time year-round, exempting it from federal daylight saving time provisions. The second insertion permits the state to observe daylight saving time year-round, but this provision will only take effect if a majority of voters in the referendum favor it.

The referendum will be conducted if Congress enacts legislation allowing Texas to observe daylight saving time year-round. Voters will choose between "Observing standard time year-round" and "Observing daylight saving time year-round." The results of the referendum will determine which time standard the state will adopt, with specific provisions for how the election will be conducted and how the results will be certified. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, but the provisions regarding the referendum and time observation will only be enacted if a constitutional amendment authorizing the referendum is approved by voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 312.016 (Government Code 312)