US House passes bill to crack down on university boycotts of Israel
The measure would cut federal higher-education aid to schools that join boycotts of Israel and require annual certifications on student access.
- On Thursday, the House passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act in a 237-169 vote, with 33 Democrats breaking from Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and James Clyburn to support the measure.
- Sponsored by North Carolina Republican Virginia Foxx, the legislation amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to withhold federal funding from universities engaging in what it defines as a 'nonexpressive commercial boycott' of Israel.
- Florida Rep. Jared Moskowitz, the ranking member of the subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, supported the bill, a move that angered progressives who criticize the measure for targeting the BDS movement.
- Rep. Jerry Nadler called the bill a 'gross violation of the First Amendment,' while Rep. Bobby Scott noted no American university has enacted such policies, both citing the measure as a 'solution in search of a problem.'
- The bill now moves to the Senate, where Foundation for Middle East Peace President Lara Friedman suggests it could facilitate legal action against schools by penalizing constitutionally protected political expression.
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65 Articles
US House passes bill to stop federal funding of universities boycotting Israel
The US House has approved a bill aimed at halting federal support for universities that boycott Israel, marking a significant political shift that now awaits Senate approval. The vote reflected a mostly partisan divide, with some Democrats voicing concerns about free speech implications. Amid escalating protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, supporters assert that the legislation addresses antisemitism, a claim contested by demonstrators who…
House Passes Bill Blocking Aid to Colleges That Boycott Israel
The House of Representatives passed legislation Thursday that would block federal aid to any college or university that boycotts Israel. The Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2026 passed the Republican-led chamber 237 to 169; 33 Democrats broke with the party line to vote in favor, while two Republicans voted against.
Jewish Telegraphic Agency
Jewish ReportUS House passes bill stripping federal funds from universities that boycott Israel
The measure had the support of 203 Republicans, 33 Democrats and one Independent. But not all Jewish representatives voted in favor.
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