Prohibits institution of higher education which boycotts or divests from Israel-supporting or Israeli businesses from receiving State funds.
Impact
Should this bill be enacted, it would not only restrict financial assistance from the state to various educational institutions but would also redefine the metrics by which these institutions are evaluated. They would need to adhere to this new requirement to gain access to state funds, including operating aid and scholarship programs. This could potentially lead to a chilling effect on discussions or actions related to Israel, as institutions might feel pressured to align with the state's political priorities to secure funding.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4419 proposes to prohibit institutions of higher education from receiving state funds if they engage in boycotting or divesting from businesses that support Israel. This includes any actions taken against Israeli-controlled entities or industries, as well as participation in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The intent behind this bill is to ensure that public financial support is not funneled into institutions perceived as hostile toward Israel, thereby aligning state funding with certain political or economic stances.
Contention
The bill has generated significant debate, particularly around the implications for academic freedom and institutional independence. Opponents argue that such restrictions would stifle free expression and curtail educational institutions' ability to engage in critical discourse regarding international relations and humanitarian issues. Supporters contend that it is a necessary measure to assert a clear state policy against economic pressures aimed at delegitimizing Israel, arguing that state support should reflect its values and priorities.
Prohibiting the State Treasurer, the State Employees' Retirement System, the Public School Employees' Retirement System and the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System from boycotting or divesting from Israel; and prohibiting funding to an institution of higher education that engages in a boycott against or divestment from Israel.
A RESOLUTION supporting the State of Israel and opposing the international Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement which seeks to harm the State of Israel.