Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed two significant bills on Monday, officially changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, in line with President Donald Trump’s directive.
The executive order signed by President Trump on his first day of his second term called for the renaming of the Gulf, stating that the Gulf has been a crucial asset to America, both historically and in the present day. Trump highlighted the Gulf’s importance as a major artery for early trade, its rich natural resources including oil and gas, its role in fisheries, and its significance in American tourism and the maritime industry.
“The Gulf is one of the most prodigious oil and gas regions in the world, providing roughly 14% of our Nation’s crude-oil production and an abundance of natural gas,” Trump said in his executive order. “The Gulf is also a favorite destination for American tourism and recreation activities. In recognition of this flourishing economic resource, I am directing that it officially be renamed the Gulf of America.”
In response to the executive order, the Florida Legislature moved quickly. The two bills signed by Governor DeSantis include HB 575, which will amend numerous state laws to reflect the name change, and HB 549, which mandates that state agencies update geographic materials to reflect the Gulf of America name. The Republican-controlled Senate passed the bills last week, after they were approved by the House.
With these actions, Florida becomes the first state to officially recognize the Gulf of America. Additionally, the bills include provisions that will require school instructional materials adopted or purchased as of July 1 to incorporate the Gulf of America name.
Senator Nick DiCeglie, R-Indian Rocks Beach, who sponsored one of the bills, joined DeSantis for the signing ceremony. In a prepared statement, DiCeglie emphasized Florida’s commitment to celebrating “American exceptionalism.”
“Florida is proud to follow the leadership of President Trump as the first state to officially recognize the Gulf of America,” DiCeglie said. “American exceptionalism isn’t an abstract idea, it is an absolute fact that we must recognize and celebrate. In Florida, we will always put America first.”
