Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has forfeited at least $37.5 million in federal funds after refusing to comply with an executive order banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJT), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required the airport to certify that it does not “operate any programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws.” That condition reflects a signed January order, which prohibits DEI programs in organizations that do business with or receive money from the federal government.
City officials declined the terms on July 29. As a result, the FAA withheld $57 million, though federal authorities said $19 million could be restored in the next budget year if Atlanta agrees to the new language. The lost money was intended for projects such as repaving taxiways and renovating restrooms…