Should Massachusetts Change Time Zones?

From the beginning of time, Massachusetts, New England and the entire east coast have all been in the Eastern Time Zone.  We've all gotten used to it by now, but a special legislative commission is considering having the state leave for the lesser known Atlantic Time Zone.

Think of it as Daylight Saving Time all year round without having to adjust your clocks twice a year.

Sure, it would be nice to have a little more daylight at the end of the day in winter, but at what cost?

I would think it would take some getting used to.  Especially if you live in Massachusetts and work in Rhode Island, or vice versa.  We would no longer be aligned with the rest of the East Coast.  If you have friends in New York or Florida you'll have to do some math to figure out if it is too late or early to give them a call.  You'd also have to wait an extra hour for your favorite TV shows to come on, and it would still be dark out when the kids get up and wait for the bus in the morning.

The commission has been doing research, and found that if the change was made, it could create economic growth since people might want to go out to eat or do some shopping after work.  The extra hour at night could also reduce some energy costs since you might not have to use as much heat or electricity.  There is even a possibility of reduced car accidents and street crime.

However, don't expect the change to happen just yet.  Other New England states would most likely have to get on board before we jump ahead.

It sounds like a good idea on paper, but will it work in reality?  What do you think?