Abbott Threatens Airport Funds Over $300,000 Islamic Prayer Facilities
Updated
Updated · The Texas Tribune · Aug 15
Abbott Threatens Airport Funds Over $300,000 Islamic Prayer Facilities
3 articles · Updated · The Texas Tribune · Aug 15
Summary
Greg Abbott warned Dallas and Houston airports that state and federal funding could be pulled unless they stop maintaining or pursuing ablution facilities used before Muslim prayer.
Letters sent Friday to DFW, city mayors and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy argue the facilities illegally favor one religion at government-owned airports and warrant grant reviews and federal investigations.
DFW said its proposed facility has not been approved and that state filing details are inaccurate; the airport has a foot-washing station from 2019, while Houston has operated an ablution room since 2024.
The DFW project was tied to a $300,000 private donation, and state scrutiny intensified after Sen. Tan Parker asked airport officials Thursday how the donation was accepted and who provided it.
The threat fits Abbott's broader use of funding leverage against Texas cities, including over a Muslims-only event in Grand Prairie and rainbow crosswalks supporting LGBTQ+ communities.