Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has forfeited at least $37.5 million in federal funds after city leaders refused to comply with a Trump administration mandate requiring recipients to disavow diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The Federal Aviation Administration withheld $57 million this year, though $19 million may still be released in the next budget cycle if the city agrees to the conditions. The funds were slated for projects such as repaving taxiways and renovating restrooms.
The requirement stems from a January executive order signed by Donald Trump banning DEI programs at federally funded entities. Atlanta officials said compliance could jeopardize longstanding initiatives reserving 25% of airport contracts for minority-owned businesses and 10% for women-owned firms — policies dating back to former Mayor Maynard Jackson that helped expand Black-owned businesses in the city.
Other major cities, including New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, are suing to block Trump’s DEI ban, but Atlanta is not part of that lawsuit. Mayor Andre Dickens said the city is evaluating options to preserve its values while securing federal money.
The airport, which generated $989 million in revenue last year, said it will seek alternative funding to continue construction projects.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
