Daylight-Saving didn’t need to be ‘fixed’

After 20 years of Daylight-Saving Time, did it have to be changed? The new rules enacted in 2007 added a month to DST. The adage “if it isn't broke, don't fix it,” evidently didn't apply in this case.

But it is not working for many Americans, as it is not only dark early in the evening when getting off work, doing chores or outside yard work, it is also dark way into the morning in the fall. It also becomes a safety issue with small children huddled in the dark waiting for school buses, not to mention all the school buses fighting rush-hour traffic in darkness.

As for energy savings, where is it? Like most people's electric bill, mine has gone up, and it is now thought that more energy is consumed compensating for early darkness in lighting, heating, etc., than is saved. DST is now in effect about 65 percent of the year. Congress in 2007 retained the right to revert to the prior dates should the new dates be unpopular or energy savings is not significant.

Iowans are known for their individualism and Midwest common sense. Let us put this attribute to use and start a protest movement that spreads throughout the country. DST has its place but this is a case of too much of a good thing.

Contact your congressman and demand a return to DST dates before 2007 - first Sunday in April to last Sunday in October. Those dates were a sure sign of spring and a treat after a hard winter.

Jim Magner

Waukon