US House Passes Bill to Withhold Federal Funds from Universities Boycotting Israel

The US House of Representatives passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act on Thursday, a bill that would block federal aid for universities that boycott Israel. The Republican majority chamber passed the legislation with a vote of 237 to 169. While the vote was mostly along party lines, 33 Democrats voted in favor and two Republicans voted against it. The bill must now pass the Senate to become law.

Supporters of the bill, including some Democrats and the organization AIPAC, argue that the measure prevents discrimination against academic partnerships and investments with Israel. Opponents, including Democratic leadership and the organization J Street, raise concerns regarding free speech and the potential for political attacks on colleges. Representative Jerrold Nadler stated that while he opposes the global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, he voted no to protect the right to free expression.

Outlets with a center lean focused on the legislative progress and the specific vote counts. Outlets with a left lean emphasized the opposition from Democratic leaders and noted that the bill treats a total boycott of Israel similarly to a boycott of West Bank companies. Outlets with a center lean also provided broader context regarding the war in Gaza, noting that the conflict sparked campus protests and subsequent allegations of antisemitism from Republicans, which protesters deny.