Alberta Bill Proposes Permanent Daylight Saving Time

EDMONTON, Alberta - The government of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith introduced proposed legislation on Thursday to eliminate seasonal clock changes across the province, opting instead for permanent daylight saving time under the banner of "Alberta Time."

Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally tabled the bill in the legislature, marking an end to years of public debate and multiple referendums on the issue. The measure, if approved, would prevent Albertans from turning their clocks back one hour on November 1 as traditionally done. Nally emphasized the government's resolve during a media briefing before the introduction. "We're now done talking about it, and we're taking action," he said. Regarding the name, he added, "In terms of calling it Alberta Time, it just seemed like it would be a good one."

The decision follows signals from Smith earlier in the week that action was imminent. She cited the recent move by neighboring British Columbia to abandon clock changes as a key factor influencing Alberta's timeline. British Columbia's choice to stay on permanent daylight time prompted Alberta to align its approach, avoiding potential discrepancies in time zones between the provinces.