Lawmaker Aims to Make ‘Howdy’ Arizona’s Official Welcome Greeting

By Hannah Bolick (Guest Contributor) |

In Arizona, commemorative bills serve a unique purpose for lawmakers, allowing them to spotlight fascinating aspects of the state’s history while adding flair to legislation. The bolo tie proudly represents Arizona’s official neckwear, while the Colt Single Action Army Revolver holds the title of the state’s official firearm. Over the past 113 years, Arizona has cultivated a distinct identity, which legislators continue to enhance through various initiatives.

Last year, Representative Justin Wilmeth introduced a bill to designate Pluto as the state’s official planet. While it might appear trivial, the bill underscores a significant chapter in Arizona’s history. Wilmeth explained, “Every state does this as a way to have some State pride, or to promote something that’s a part of the state’s history. Pluto was discovered in Flagstaff in 1930, an international milestone for a town that then had a population of about 8,000. Commemorative bills are simple and harmless and spark discussions.”

This year, lawmakers are considering a new bill that proposes “Howdy” as Arizona’s official state greeting. Representative Kevin Volk has introduced this bipartisan bill, which contains straightforward language: “HOWDY IS THE OFFICIAL STATE GREETING.”

Wilmeth, who co-sponsored this measure, stated, “There is still an element of cowboy culture in this state. Visitors often want to experience places like Old Town Scottsdale, a bastion of our cowboy heritage. Arizona retains a spirit of the Old West, and I will always view it as such.”

These two bills diverge in their core focus: one centers on an intriguing historical fact, while the other leans on cultural identity to advocate for the greeting. However, critics argue that designating an official greeting may be a misallocation of legislative time, especially since the House may show less enthusiasm for the bill.

Philip Petersen, a sixth-generation Arizonan, shared his mixed feelings: “I appreciate our Wild West heritage, but I don’t think it’s the best use of time. The legislature operates on a limited schedule, and although I love Arizona, I rarely hear anyone say ‘Howdy.’ I’ve traveled to 38 states and heard it often in Texas and occasionally in New Mexico, but never in Arizona.”

As lawmakers contemplate these matters, the discussion revolves around what components genuinely reflect a state’s identity. The significance of a firearm, a beverage, or a greeting ultimately rests with the legislators and their interpretation of Arizona’s cultural essence.

Hannah Bolick is a guest contributor and student in ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.