US House Passes Bill Against University Boycotts of Israel

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act, a bill that would cut federal funding to higher education institutions engaging in economic boycotts of Israel. The legislation passed with a vote of 237 in favor and 169 against. A majority of Republicans supported the bill, joined by 33 Democrats, while two Republicans and most Democrats voted against it. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

The proposed law requires colleges and universities participating in federal student aid programs to certify they are not involved in commercial boycotts of Israel that are not based on business considerations. Additionally, institutions must ensure students and faculty have equal opportunities to participate in Israel-related programs compared to programs involving other countries. Failure to comply could result in the loss of federal funding.

The bill was introduced by Republican Virginia Foxx and Democrat Josh Gottheimer. It had previously been approved by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in June. Gottheimer stated the bill does not restrict free speech, protests, or academic discussions, but rather prohibits federally funded universities from discriminating against academic ties or investments with Israel.

Opponents of the bill argue it infringes upon free speech rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Democrat Jerrold Nadler, who personally opposes the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, voted against the legislation, asserting that the right of boycott supporters to express their views must also be protected.