Texas Governor Reviews Airport Grants Over Islamic Washing Stations

Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed a review of state grants for Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) on Friday, following DFW's decision to scrap plans for Islamic ablution washing stations.

Abbott stated that government-owned airports cannot favor one religion over others and referred both airports to the U.S. Department of Transportation for investigation, citing potential illegal religious discrimination. DFW had been evaluating a proposal for ablution stations on the pre-security side of Terminal D, its international terminal, but accelerated its review due to public attention and determined not to proceed, citing a lack of anticipated operational benefits.

The project, initially registered on July 31, was reportedly planned to cost $300,000 and was initially listed as privately funded, though DFW later stated an error in filing indicated airport funds would be used. Abbott also wrote to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, requesting a review of facilities at both airports. IAH already has an ablution facility connected to a prayer room.