How does a US state own a planet?

They’re not the brightest bulb on the tree.

The article goes on at length to explain the decision was in reference to the fact that Pluto was discovered by an astronomer at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. That’s the whole story. This question is invented outrage.

I would agree that there are bigger problems in the state of AZ than whether or not to have a state planet.

However it really doesn’t mean it owns the planet. They identified Pluto as the state planet. Every state has a state bird, but that doesn’t mean they own all the birds. They have state gems but it doesn’t mean they own all the gems. Same with state trees. Usually these are items that someone in the state felt would be a good symbol of the state. They serve no useful purpose.

And here I thought it was an April Fool question,until I saw the date (March 30) on the article.
Gotta wonder who is the representative from that district?

“Planet”....
How stupid of a State is Arizona that they can’t even designate a heavenly body correctly.

“Invented outrage”. I love that term; describes some of what goes on at Fluther.

Agree with @seawulf575 It’s a nothingburger. As an astronomer I am happy with the announcement. And although Pluto is technically not a planet by current accepted definition, it’s still a fun thing.

Hey, as far as I’m concerned, if they can get to Pluto, they can have it!

Are they looking for a higher class of alien?

Because its easier than discussing actual issues on earth and making laws to sort them out.

There are several reasons NONE of which makes a lot of sense!!!

One…Pluto was discovered at an observatory in Arizona.
Two…Pluto has been removed from being a full fledged planet.
Three…This is Arizona’s way of protesting the decision to dwarf Pluto & I also see it as a voter distraction from the current voting issues in Arizona.

Proof of what too much exposure to the sun will do to your brain.

Technically, not a planet, but a dwarf planet.

Hi Chuck!

@Tropical_Willie Yo.

I don’t see them asserting any rights to Pluto any more than they are asserting rights to Bolo Ties (their official state neckwear).
Most State Proclamations seem to be a waste of time. Occasionally, such things might make a bit of money for the state, which is a good idea.
Arizona is full of QAnon believers and election liars, though. They have an internal war goin on between those people and the good half.
State proclamations are sometimes a fluffy respite from normal politics, where everyone can agree on something that’s surfacey and feelgood.

I think each state should have a “state planet” just like they do state bird and state flower. I’m proposing Tae Ceti g for California. We can see it’s sun from here.