This legislation would significantly impact investment policies of state and local governments. By broadly defining activities that would trigger divestment, it provides grounds for state entities to reassess their financial engagements with certain organizations. Moreover, local governments would have to provide written notice and documentation before they could implement these measures, promoting transparency but also complicating the processes for enacting quick responses to perceived threats against Israeli relations.
Summary
SB1637, known as the 'Combating BDS Act of 2023,' seeks to empower state and local governments by allowing them to divest from entities that engage in specific boycott, divestment, and sanctions activities targeting Israel. The bill poses a nonpreemption stance, meaning state or local measures to divest or restrict contracting with such entities will not be overridden by federal law. The focus is on ensuring that local governments retain the ability to take action against entities perceived as undermining relations with Israel through economic means, such as boycotts or sanctions.
Contention
A point of contention surrounding SB1637 is the implications it may have on free speech and the rights associated with political action. Critics argue that the act could discourage legitimate protests or movements that seek to critique government actions regarding Israel, potentially infringing on First Amendment rights. The balance between combating economic practices seen as harmful to diplomatic relationships and protecting rights of expression presents a significant area of debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups.
Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD). The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model. The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD: importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments; importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and possession by a retired law enforcement officer. The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties. The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD. Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture. The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.