Texas Senate Bill SB491

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain government contracts with companies that boycott Israel.

Impact

The bill aims to prevent the state government from entering into contracts with companies that are perceived to participate in boycotts against Israel. As a result, this could influence how companies view their business engagements with Texas government entities, potentially deterring them from participating in such contracts if they are skeptical about Israel or support boycotting actions. The legislation is expected to impact the decision-making processes of businesses regarding compliance with state laws and may indirectly support the state's economic relationship with Israel.

Summary

SB491 proposes amendments to existing Texas law concerning government contracts with companies that engage in boycotting Israel. The bill specifically requires that any contract valued at $100,000 or more between a governmental entity and a company must include a written verification from the company that it does not boycott Israel. This section is meant to reinforce Texas's stance against economic boycotts of Israel, emphasizing state support for Israel in international affairs.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SB491 often relate to debates over freedom of speech and the rights of individuals and companies to express political beliefs. Critics may argue that imposing a requirement to affirm non-boycotting behavior infringes upon the rights of companies to express opposition to policies or actions that they find objectionable. Proponents, on the other hand, contend that the bill is a necessary measure to promote solidarity with Israel and counteract movements such as BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) that are seen to delegitimize Israel. This dichotomy is likely to fuel discussions in the legislature about the implications of such requirements on broader free speech rights.