Texas Wildlife Refuge Renaming for Jocelyn Nungaray: Bill Cites 2025 Trump Order, Details Alleged Crime

This legislation formally proposes changing the name of the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Texas to the "Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge." According to Section 1 of the bill, this change is intended to honor 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was tragically murdered in Houston. The bill also notes that President Donald J. Trump had previously signed Executive Order 14229 on March 5, 2025, to enact the same renaming, citing Jocelyn's love for animals and the refuge's proximity to Houston.

New Name, Same Place: The Practicalities

So, what does this mean on the ground? If this bill becomes law, Section 2 makes it clear: the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge officially gets a new name. This isn't just a suggestion; it means any U.S. law, map, regulation, official document, or record referring to the refuge will need to be updated to "Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge." For folks planning a visit or looking up information, the signs and official materials would carry this new name, serving as a permanent tribute.

The Story Behind the Sign: Context and Conversation

The "Findings" in Section 1 of the bill lay out the reasoning for the name change. It's here the bill specifies that Jocelyn Nungaray was allegedly murdered by "two illegal aliens who were members of the Tren de Aragua gang." While the primary goal is to honor a young victim, the decision to include these specific details about the alleged perpetrators' immigration status and gang affiliation directly in the legislative text is significant. This kind of explicit framing can subtly shift the conversation around a commemorative act. It means the renaming, intended as a memorial, might also become intertwined with broader, often heated, debates on immigration policy and public safety. It’s a point to be aware of, as this language could influence public perception and potentially create a charged atmosphere for immigrant communities, even as the bill aims to remember a tragic loss.