Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry signs order to use ‘Gulf of America’ in state documents, maps

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Gov. Jeff Landry signed an executive order to start using the “Gulf of America” instead of the “Gulf of Mexico” in state documents and maps.

The order directs the Office of the State Register to replace all Gulf of Mexico references with Gulf of America in the Louisiana Administrative Code, a state-certified publication with a set of rules adopted or amended by state agencies, by May 20, 2025. The name change applies to all state departments’ documents, maps and published materials.

The move follows President Donald Trump’s executive order for federal agencies to adopt the name. Landry requests that Congress pass a resolution to officially recognize the Gulf of America.

“This order also urges Congress to establish a uniform state territorial jurisdiction of water limits, so Louisiana gets the same amount of miles off the coast as every other state!” Landry wrote on X.

Louisiana schools to adopt ‘Gulf of America’ name

The state education department announced on March 12 that it is updating its social studies standards to include the Gulf of America. The updated curriculum will take effect in the 2025-2026 school year.

“Updating our academic standards ensures alignment with the leadership of President Trump and Governor Landry while reinforcing the Gulf’s significance to our state’s future,” State Superintendent Cade Brumley said. 

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