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The Florida House of Representatives approved legislation Tuesday that would rename Palm Beach County International Airport after President Donald Trump, advancing a proposal that still must clear the state Senate.
The measure passed the Republican-controlled House on an 81-30 vote, according to the Florida Phoenix. A companion bill is moving through the Senate, and the proposal would require final approval from both chambers and the signature of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to become law.
Supporters say the renaming would recognize Trump’s influence on Palm Beach, where his Mar-a-Lago resort has helped draw international attention to the area.
“Forty years ago, Donald Trump came to Palm Beach County when it was a sleepy little beach town and he bought a defunct property that today serves as the winter White House as a symbol of the power of the United States, which has made Palm Beach one of the most desirable and important locations in the world,” Republican state Rep. John Snyder said.
Officials with Palm Beach County’s Department of Airports said the change could cost up to $5.5 million. The estimate includes expenses related to designing and replacing signage, rebranding equipment and uniforms, updating promotional materials, and making adjustments to technology and operating systems.
Under the proposal, funding for the renaming would come from airport revenue unless lawmakers designate another funding source through the legislation.
The effort reflects ongoing political support for Trump among Florida Republicans, though the proposal has faced opposition from some Democrats who argued the cost is too high and said public funds should be directed elsewhere.
If enacted, the legislation would officially rename Palm Beach County International Airport, requiring updates across airport operations, branding and administrative systems.
The measure, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Debbie Mayfield of Melbourne, previously cleared committee last month with support from all six Republicans and three Democrats.
“President Trump is the first president that Florida has had in our history, and I think it’s very appropriate for us to be naming one of the other icons in Palm Beach after him,” Mayfield told Politico.