Arizona Senate passes bill to rename a highway to the "Charlie Kirk Highway"

Arizona Senate passes bill to rename a highway to the "Charlie Kirk Highway"

Arizona Senate Passes Legislation to Rename Highway and Create Charlie Kirk Memorial License Plate

The Arizona State Senate has approved two measures to honor Charlie Kirk, the late conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, following his assassination in September 2025. Senate Bill 1010 designates the 78-mile Loop 202 freeway as the "Charlie Kirk Loop 202," requiring the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to update signage and official records. The bill, sponsored by Senate President Warren Petersen (R-Gilbert), emphasizes Kirk's advocacy for civic engagement and free speech.

A companion bill, SB 1439, authorizes a Charlie Kirk memorial specialty license plate. Proceedes from the plate—$17 per annual fee after ADOT retains $8—would fund programs promoting "traditional values, patriotism, and civic responsibility," according to legislation language. While the bill does not explicitly name Turning Point USA, its criteria align closely with the organization's mission.

The license plate initiative mirrors existing state programs, which generated $12 million for charities and causes in 2024. However, critics argue the legislation circumvents standard naming protocols, which typically require a five-year waiting period post-death and a neutral review process by the State Board on Geographic and Historic Names.

Both bills now advance to the Republican-controlled House for consideration before reaching Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs' desk. If enacted, the highway renaming would not impact the state's general fund, according to SB 1010's language, while the license plate program could generate recurring revenue for designated initiatives.

The measures have drawn partisan debate, with Senate Democrats questioning whether the honors align with broader community values. No official stance from Governor Hobbs has been disclosed.

(https://www.azfamily.com/2026/02/18/arizona-senate-gop-passes-bill-that-renames-highway-after-charlie-kirk/): AZFamily, AZ Capitol Times
(https://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2026/02/18/arizona-senate-approves-renaming-loop-202-after-charlie-kirk/): AZ Capitol Times
(https://www.azfamily.com/2026/02/18/arizona-senate-gop-passes-bill-that-renames-highway-after-charlie-kirk/): AZ Capitol Times
(https://www.abc15.com/news/local-news/arizona-legislation-to-rename-loop-202-after-charlie-kirk-advances): ABC15, AZ Capitol Times