• Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announces proposal to rename Nashville airport after Dolly Parton.
• Over 157,000 fans signed a petition calling for the airport renaming.
• The Metro Nashville Airport Authority is set to discuss the proposal on September 17.
• Parton passed away from cancer at age 80 earlier this week.
• The renaming is seen as a way to honor Parton’s legacy and cultural impact.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has proposed to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music star, Dolly Parton, following her passing at the age of 80 due to cancer. This initiative was inspired by a surge of support from fans, who have signed a petition advocating for the change, which gained over 157,000 signatures shortly after her death, according to Reuters, CBS News, and BBC.

In a statement, Governor Lee emphasized Parton's significant role in Tennessee's cultural identity. "At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter," he remarked, underlining the impact of her music and generosity on the state, according to Reuters and CBS News.

The proposal necessitates a review of the current naming policies of the Metro Nashville Airport Authority, which traditionally requires individuals to be deceased for at least two years before their names can be honored in such a manner. A meeting scheduled for September 17 will address this issue, as well as gather public input on the renaming process, according to CBS News and BBC.

This renaming aligns with ongoing efforts to honor Parton in her home state. Alongside the airport proposal, state lawmakers are also actively discussing legislation to designate September 25 as "9 to 5" Day, celebrating one of her most iconic songs, as mentioned in Reuters and CBS News.