Bill to name Arizona highway after Charlie Kirk moves forward

'Charlie Kirk Highway' bill advances in Arizona Senate Committee

If passed, the bill instructs ADOT to place signs along the highway of the Loop 202 with the new designation.

PHOENIX - A proposed bill to change the name of the Loop 202 to the Charlie Kirk Loop 202 is moving forward.

What we know:

With Republican support, the bill, SB 1010, cleared the Senate Public Safety Committee, the Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus announced on Jan. 21.

Sponsored by Senate President Warren Petersen, the change "requires the designation to be reflected in official state records, documentation, and roadway signage."

If approved, the Arizona Department of Transportation would install "a reasonable amount" of signs reflecting this designation. The addition wouldn't replace any existing designations on the 202 and has no expected fiscal impact to Arizona's General Fund. 

The backstory:

Kirk, who was the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was shot and killed while speaking at a college event on Sept. 10. TPUSA is headquartered in Phoenix. 

The 31-year-old was at Utah Valley University in Orem for his American Comeback Tour when a single gunshot took his life. Footage of his head jerking back and his body slumping was captured during the event.

Many Arizona leaders reacted to his death, including Sen. Mark Kelly, Gov. Katie Hobbs, Sen. Ruben Gallego, and Sen. Warren Petersen.

Days later, Tyler Robinson was formally charged in his murder. 

What they're saying:

"Charlie devoted his life to public discourse and political participation," said President Petersen. "He believed Americans could disagree and still engage one another civilly and respectfully. He encouraged people, especially young people, to get involved in civic life and to participate in shaping the future of their communities."

Petersen said designating Loop 202 reflects the late conservative activists' contribution to civic engagement and serves as a reminder of the significance of "promoting American ideals."

Charlie Kirk Highway? New bill seeks to rename Loop 202

Senate President Warren Petersen introduced a bill that would rename a Valley freeway after Charlie Kirk. The legislation, designated Senate Bill 1010, proposes renaming Loop 202 the "Charlie Kirk Highway."

"Arizona has always been a place where people are encouraged to engage, challenge ideas, and make their voices heard. This designation reflects that 
tradition and reaffirms our commitment to protecting open dialogue in the public square," Sen. Petersen said in part.

What's next:

SB 1010 will move forward to the full Senate body.

To read the fact sheet for the bill, click here.