Committee backs bill to let state preempt naming of major airports; Palm Beach would be designated for 'Donald J. Trump' name with FAA approval

Senator Mayfield introduced SB 706, which would apply to the seven Florida airports the bill defines as "major commercial service airports" and would preempt naming decisions at the state level. Senator Mayfield said the bill will change Palm Beach International's designation to "Donald J. Trump International Airport," though the amendment clarifies that any name change is subject to approval by the Federal Aviation Administration and execution of an agreement between Palm Beach County and the trademark holder.

The sponsor explained an amendment (barcode 511648) that narrows how the change would be implemented: it requires FAA approval, a trademark‑holder agreement to authorize commercial use of the name, and it allows a "reasonable implementation period" for the local government to handle procurement, signage and rebranding. When asked by Senator Davis whether a specific number of days was included, Senator Mayfield said the bill leaves the implementation timeframe to Palm Beach County's discretion so the county can allocate funds and develop branding on its schedule.

Todd Bonglaren, chief deputy county administrator for Palm Beach County, and Nick Irossi (on behalf of Palm Beach County) spoke in support. Irossi said Palm Beach County's commission had previously renamed a local road for the former president and described President Trump as an "icon" and Florida resident. With no dissent on the amendment, the committee adopted it and later recorded a roll call reporting CS for SB 706 favorably.

The committee's action advances the measure as amended; the amendment explicitly ties any airport name change to FAA review and to a contractual agreement with the trademark owner, leaving local implementation timing to the county.