Governor Ivey Signs Bill Changing Gulf’s Name To Gulf Of America

In his song "Gulf Coast Girl" the late Jimmy Buffet's lyrics talked about being, " right at home on my American sea," he didn't know he was foreshadowing the future. With the stroke of pen Gov. Kay Ivey signed legislation officially requiring the use of "Gulf of America" It is now the official reference in Alabama State Code.

House Bill 2 officially requires the name change of the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.” The new law now makes the change applicable to official state documents, educational materials, maps, and websites starting October 1st.

“I have signed HB2, making it official — in Alabama, we’re calling it the Gulf of America! It’s got a nice ring to it. And it just makes sense,” Ivey stated.

It is unknown how much the renaming will cost but the law includes a carve-out allowing schools, colleges, and universities to continue using the name "Gulf of Mexico" in certain educational or historical contexts if the expense of making the change is creates and excessive financial burden.

Democrats and some local officials opposed the switch, labeling it a waste of time and resources.

The change, which is not universally popular, is a result of pressure by President Trump. He unilaterally decided on his second inauguration day to issue Executive Order 14172, titled "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness".

The name "Gulf of Mexico" had been in existence since it appeared on maps as early as 1550. Spanish explorers began using the designation following their 1519 arrival and conquest of the Aztec Empire.

On March 31, the Alabama Senate passed HB2 by a vote of 26-5. The bill, sponsored by Blount County Rep. David Standridge (R-34), was then sent to Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature. Similar legislation by Standridge failed in last year's session.

The United States Geological Survey officially made the name change in 2025 and now Alabama joins Florida as the only two states to make the switch.