Alabama § 1-3-11 - The Gulf of America Act
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 1-3-11 — The Gulf of America Act, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1-3-11. The Gulf of America Act
(a) This section shall be known and may be cited as the Gulf of America Act.
(b) For all purposes within the State of Alabama, the body of water that borders the coast of Alabama, previously known as the Gulf of Mexico, shall be known as the “Gulf of America.” Any reference to the Gulf of Mexico shall be deemed to be a reference to the Gulf of America.
(c) Beginning October 1, 2026, all state and local entities and their employees shall be required to do all of the following:
(1) Refer to the body of water that borders the coast of Alabama as the “Gulf of America.”
(2) Reflect the “Gulf of America” terminology in all newly created maps, documents, educational materials, websites, official communications, and other resources.
(3)a. Make reasonable efforts to update all pre-existing resources owned by state and local entities, including, but not limited to, official state maps, documents, educational materials, websites, and communications under their jurisdiction to reflect the name change, where practicable.
b. The requirements of paragraph a. shall not apply if compliance would impose an operational or financial burden on the state or local entity and their employees.
(d) Nothing in this section shall prohibit a public K-12 school or public institution of higher education from using the term “Gulf of Mexico” within a larger course of academic instruction when reasonable for historical purposes.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 1-3-11
What does Code of Alabama § 1-3-11 cover?
Section 1-3-11 ("The Gulf of America Act") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 1-3-11?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 1-3-11" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 1-3-11 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.