During a recent government meeting, the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Board's proposed ordinance was discussed, focusing on significant amendments to the airport's code of rules and regulations. The ordinance, adopted on June 6, 2024, includes a ban on smoking throughout the airport, with specific exceptions outlined. Additionally, it clarifies and updates procedures for permit requests and issuance, particularly concerning commercial filming on airport grounds.

Council Member Nervaez raised concerns about certain provisions in the amendments, particularly those that could potentially infringe on the rights of protesters and unionized workers. Nervaez highlighted vague language in the code that might expose the airport to litigation and violate civil rights, especially First Amendment rights. She proposed that the DFW Airport Board reconsider specific sections that could limit free speech and the distribution of union materials among employees.

Despite these concerns, Nervaez acknowledged the necessity of approving the overall package, as the city council could only vote on the entire set of amendments rather than individual items. The city of Fort Worth had already approved the amendments, and failure to pass the ordinance would send it back to the DFW Airport Board for further consideration.

In a spirit of compromise, Nervaez expressed her intent to collaborate with the DFW Airport Board to address her concerns in future meetings while supporting the majority of the proposed changes. The council ultimately moved to approve the ordinance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining DFW Airport's status as a leading facility while ensuring the rights of all individuals involved.