A new House Bill has been proposed, making it mandatory for all Florida colleges and universities to rename roads after Charlie Kirk—or potentially lose state funding.
Filed Tuesday by Republican State Rep. Kevin Steele, House Bill 113 requires boards of trustees at all Florida state universities and institutions in the Florida College System rename specific roads after Kirk.
WATCH ZITLALI SOLACHE'S COVERAGE BELOW:
The proposed bill lists all the roads that should be renamed in the state, including at Florida Atlantic University, Indian River State College and Palm Beach State College.
Education
EXCLUSIVE: FAU professor placed on leave over Kirk posts speaks to WPTV
The bill states FAU's University Drive should be renamed Charlie James Kirk Drive; Indian River State College is required to change Cross Campus Road to Charlie James Kirk Road; and Palm Beach State College is asked to change Ersey Street to Charlie James Kirk Street.
The bill further states that if it becomes law, any college or university that does not comply with the renaming of the "roadway or portion of a roadway" within a 90-day period of it taking effect will lose state funding.
WPTV's Zitlali Solache spoke with Florida Atlantic University student leaders about the topic, which already sparked debate.
“I think the sentiments of the bill are well warranted," said Nick Coyte, president of FAU's Turning Point USA chapter. “Charlie Kirk was, I personally believe, the most influential figure politically, spiritually, of his generation.”
However, Nicholas Ostheimer, president of FAU College Democrats, is against the proposal.
“This is definitely coercive," said Ostheimer. “If the universities and their students wanted to do it, they could do it by themselves. But the state is forcing this measure on every public college."
He added, "Charlie Kirk is not a marauder; he is not a hero. He is a victim of gun violence and political violence.”
Discussion on the proposed bill would take place during the 2026 legislative session, which begins Jan. 13
READ FULL BILL HERE:
MORE COVERAGE:
State
'Unconstitutional': Fired Florida wildlife biologist sues over Charlie Kirk post
Region Martin County
'THIS IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL': Teacher faces firing over Charlie Kirk comments
Region St Lucie County
Charlie Kirk road? Commissioners are floating the idea
Stuart
