The Alabama House has passed a bill to rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America in accordance with President Trump’s executive order. Schools, parks and other agencies need guidance on textbooks, maps, and other materials that carry the name of the gulf, the bill’s sponsor, Rep. David Standridge (R-Blount County), said. Democrats, specifically Rep. Laura Hall (D-Huntsville), opposed the bill and questioned how the state benefitted from following the whims of the president instead of addressing more important matters. The bill says that all state and local entities and their employees must make the outlined changes beginning Oct. 1, 2026. The requirements would only not apply in the cases of an operational or financial burden. Reporting by Mike Cason Read more on AL.com #alabama #gulfofamerica #gulfofmexico #trump #legislation