TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey lawmakers are proposing to rename the Delaware Bay to the “Bay of New Jersey,” asserting state pride over a waterway that borders both New Jersey and Delaware but serves as the outflow of the Delaware River.
The bill was introduced by New Jersey Republican Senator Michael Testa.
A new bill, S4670, introduced during the 2024-2025 legislative session, would mandate that all state departments and agencies update signage, websites, publications and other materials to reflect the change. The measure also calls for the state to notify federal agencies of the proposed renaming.
Although the bay borders both New Jersey and Delaware, the bill makes no mention of the latter state, instead focusing on New Jersey’s geographic and cultural claim to the waterway. Supporters of the bill argue that the bay is more closely aligned with New Jersey’s identity and infrastructure.
The Delaware Bay, historically named after Thomas West, the 3rd Baron De La Warr, was so named by early English settlers in the 17th century. It serves as a key estuary supporting fishing, shipping and wildlife across both states.
State seeks formal renaming despite historical ties
If passed, Bill S4670 would mark a rare instance of a U.S. state attempting to unilaterally rename a major body of water shared with another state and federally recognized under its current name. There is no indication yet of support or opposition from Delaware lawmakers or federal agencies.
The proposed change may face legal and logistical challenges, as geographic names in the United States are overseen by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names. That board typically considers historical precedent, local usage, and stakeholder input before approving official changes to names.
New Jersey’s effort to rename the bay mirrors other attempts by U.S. jurisdictions to rebrand or reclaim place names seen as outdated or inaccurate. However, few have involved a neighboring state’s namesake.
There has been no official statement from Delaware Governor John Carney or state legislators as of Thursday regarding the proposed renaming. Federal input from agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also remains pending.
The bill is currently awaiting committee review before potentially advancing to a full vote in the state Senate.