Nashville sues to stop state takeover of the airport authority, citing home rule

Metro Nashville is suing Gov. Bill Lee and Republican leaders of the General Assembly over a new law reforming the Airport Authority board. The suit contends that the law violates the state constitution’s home rule and equal protection clause.

Metro Law Director Wally Deitz calls it a “hostile takeover” that affects only one local government and therefore violates the Tennessee Constitution.

The new law vacates the current Airport Authority board of commissioners — and strips appointments and confirmation powers from Metro councilmembers.

The current makeup of the board consists of seven members, all appointed by the Mayor of Nashville. The new board would have eight members with only two appointed by the mayor. The rest would be divided between the governor and speakers of the Tennessee House and Senate.