Minutes Exhibit D
Port Commission Regular meeting
of February 14, 2017
Commissioner Gregoire confirms all Sea-Tac Airport travelers
affected by immigration order have been legally allowed to
travel in the U.S.
02/05/2017
"We can now confirm that all the travelers who came to Sea-Tac Airport last Saturday have
been legally permitted to travel in the United States.
"The final traveler returned to the United States today.
"The Port of Seattle has continued to facilitate legal representation for travelers since the abrupt
and chaotic implementation of this executive order last Saturday, Jan. 28.
"On the first day of implementation, we identified expert immigration advocates in our
community and connected those experts to families waiting for a detained traveler. Where
appropriate, we provided operational information that helped families and advocates understand
the deadlines and legal landscape. The remarkable and real-time collaboration between public
agencies and legal experts ensured that two travelers with legal visas, who were about to be
denied entry and returned to their country of departure, were allowed to enter the United States
last Saturday.
"That partnership continues to serve travelers today. All week Sea-Tac Airport has made it
possible for legal representatives to stay at the airport, ensuring that travelers who might be
affected by the ban have access to legal representation and the full benefit of their rights. We
have also stayed close with federal, state and local leaders working on immigration issues. We
are deeply grateful for the trust and partnership between local elected officials, public agencies
and nonprofits who all worked toward the same goal of ensuring representation.
"This executive order runs contrary to our values as the government that operates Sea-Tac
Airport on behalf of the people of King County. However, this executive order does not change
our deep respect for the federal employees who enforce the laws of our nation. These dedicated
individuals continue to maintain professionalism and kindness while operating amid legal and
humanitarian chaos." 
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