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House committee reports bill to rename Gulf of Mexico after heated testimony
Summary
The House Government Operations Committee voted 3-2 to report House Bill 4244, which would require referring to the body of water as the "Gulf of America," after supporters argued the change would promote patriotism and opponents raised legal and practical questions. Several amendments to narrow or clarify the bill failed.
The House Committee on Government Operations voted 3-2 to report House Bill 4244 with recommendation after about an hour of testimony and debate, sending the measure to the full House for further consideration.
Supporters framed the measure as a symbolic change meant to promote pride, while opponents and some committee members questioned its scope and legal effect. The measure drew amendments aimed at narrowing its reach and clarifying enforcement and cost responsibilities; all proposed amendments failed on roll-call votes.
Representative Baddock, the bill sponsor, introduced HB 4244 for consideration before the committee. A public witness who spoke in…
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