House · HR 276 · 119th Congress
Gulf of America Act
Sign in to cast a dissent vote.
Summary
This bill changes the official U.S. name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. It requires all federal agencies to update their maps and documents within 180 days. The change applies to any federal law, map, or record that currently uses the name Gulf of Mexico.
In Favor
Using the name Gulf of America highlights the United States' major role in the region. Supporters say a unified federal name reflects national pride and strengthens American identity. The 180-day deadline keeps agencies on track and ensures all official records stay consistent.
Against
Federal agencies must update every map and document within 180 days, which costs staff time and money. The minority report notes this burden hits agencies already stretched thin by budget cuts and workforce reductions. Critics say the bill delivers no practical benefit to citizens on issues like costs or public services.
Additional Considerations
Purpose & Problem
Is the problem real and worth federal action?
The bill officially changes the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America in all U.S. government records, maps, and documents. It targets every federal reference to the current name.
Scope & Related Provisions
Does it stay focused, or carry unrelated add-ons?
The provisions stay on topic. Every section deals directly with renaming the Gulf of Mexico and updating federal records to reflect that change.
Who Is Affected
Who benefits, and who bears the cost?
Federal agencies must update their documents and maps within 180 days. The Secretary of the Interior and the Board on Geographic Names oversee the update process.
Cost & Funding
Is it affordable and responsibly funded?
The bill does not authorize or appropriate any specific dollar amount. It does shift work onto every federal agency to review and update all records, maps, and documents within a set deadline.
Risks & Implementation
What could go wrong in practice?
Each federal agency must find and update every map and document within 180 days. Agencies with large or complex record sets may face challenges meeting that deadline.
For the actual bill text, see congress.gov.
AI-generated · Published 7/22/2026