Florida Governor Jeb Bush approves 'In God We Trust' as official State motto

Gov. Jeb Bush approved House Bill (HB) 1145, by Representative Greg Evers (RBaker), designating "In God We Trust" as the official state motto.

"In God We Trust" has long been assumed to be the motto of Florida, but it is by custom only as it was never adopted into law. Representative Evers led the charge to place this powerful phrase in statute.

Rep. Evers was approached by two fourth graders whose task was to research Florida facts. During their research they discovered that the State Seal, which was adopted in 1868, had the designation "In God We Trust"-but there was no certified motto. With the assistance of Andrew Killinger and Samual Ard, Representative Evers proceeded to take the bill through the legislative process.

"First and foremost this honors the Almighty," said Rep. Greg Evers (R-Baker). "It also gave these youngsters an opportunity to participate in Florida's legislative process." "I want to thank these young men for giving me the chance to do the right thing."

This second part of the bill designates The Admiral John H. Fetterman State of Florida Maritime Museum and Research Center that is to be built in Pensacola. This is a tribute to Admiral Fetterman for his many civic contributions to our community and his distinguished Naval Career.

"Admiral Fetterman will always be remembered as a model citizen in our community," said Rep. Evers. "He served this country, state, and the panhandle with pride and integrity."