WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a controversial bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport after Donald J. Trump.
The newly accredited laws, House Bill 919, offers the state authority over naming main business service airports and formally designates the power as “Donald J. Trump International Airport.” The renaming caps months of political debate in Tallahassee and marks a high-profile native effort to honor Trump.
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Gov. DeSantis signs bill to rename PBI after President Trump
The proposal was first launched in January. Supporters pointed to Trump’s longstanding ties to Palm Beach County, together with his residence at Mar-a-Lago. That similar month, a portion of Southern Boulevard, the principle roadway connecting the airport to Mar-a-Lago, was renamed President Donald J. Trump Boulevard.
Momentum for the change continued into February when the Trump Organization filed logos related to the potential airport title whereas the bill superior by way of the Legislature.
In the Florida Senate, the measure handed 25-11 alongside get together strains. Republican lawmakers backed the hassle, calling it recognition of a sitting president and Florida resident.
Democrats opposed the bill, calling it unprecedented and elevating issues about an estimated $5.5 million value to taxpayers. Critics additionally warned the change might open the door to personal monetary acquire by way of branding and merchandise tied to the airport title.
Lawmakers rejected a number of proposed amendments, together with delaying the renaming till after Trump leaves workplace, requiring voter approval by way of an area referendum, and prohibiting any monetary ties to the rebranding.
With the governor’s signature in place, the renaming will transfer ahead, although it nonetheless requires approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.
If accredited, all state data should replicate the brand new title starting July 1. The airport’s three-letter code, PBI, will stay unchanged because the transition begins.
