Draft bill #4201 of October 9, 2020
Sponsor: independent MP Ruslan Stefanchuk
Status: adopted in full
Who is affected: citizens of Ukraine
Summary: starting from 2025, the seasonal transition to daylight saving time in Ukraine will be canceled. Therefore, this year on Sunday, October 27, clock hands will be moved to standard time for Ukraine (UTC +2) for the last time.
What is right: several studies indicate that changing the clock disrupts people’s biological rhythms, negatively affecting their overall condition, both physiologically and psychologically. On top of that, there is an increase in traffic accidents due to lack of sleep, a decline in citizens’ well-being, decreased productivity, and significant aggravation of chronic diseases.
Other research points out that students become less active after the clock change, directly affecting the quality of education. Thus, ending daylight saving time transitions will improve people’s well-being.
What is wrong: moving clocks back and forth helps save daylight in the morning during winter and in the evening during summer, which could be crucial for Ukraine amid an electricity shortage. Furthermore, the bill was passed without proper discussion and an information campaign explaining the reasons and consequences of such a decision.
Alternative solution: to postpone the cancellation of seasonal time changes until the end of martial law in Ukraine and the stabilization of the energy system.
How to help the legislator: proposals concerning the draft bill can be sent to the Office of the President of Ukraine.