Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) have introduced the Countering Hate Against Israel by Federal Contractors Act, aimed at prohibiting federal contracts with entities that boycott the State of Israel. This legislative move aligns with laws or regulations in Alabama and 36 other states opposing the boycott, divestment, or sanction (BDS) movement against Israel.

"Not a single dime of taxpayer money should support antisemitism. Fulfilling our promise of ‘Never Again’ must include rooting out and condemning antisemitism in every corner of our nation, most especially in our federal government. As Israel continues to fight for her people and her very existence, it is imperative we stand firm with our tremendous ally here at home," said Senator Britt.

Senator Risch echoed these sentiments: "Antisemitism has no place in America. Businesses who boycott Israel only seek to normalize antisemitism and delegitimize our greatest friend and partner in the Middle East. Not a single taxpayer dollar ought to go to any entity engaged in this hateful behavior. With the Countering Hate Against Israel by Federal Contractors Act, we will ensure those seeking to do business with our government do not engage in acts of hate and antisemitism against the Israeli people."

The legislation has garnered support from several senators including Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and John Thune (R-S.D.).

Christians United for Israel (CUFI) has also expressed support for the act. CUFI Action Fund Chairwoman Sandra Parker stated, "American taxpayer dollars should not be subsidizing the effort to achieve with boycotts what Hamas seeks with bombs: the destruction of the state of Israel. Thirty-seven states have enacted similar policies to this legislation and it is well past time that the federal government joins them. The vast majority of American people stand with Israel, and we have a right to ensure our government’s policies match our values. The signal to every boardroom should be heard loud and clear: if you give into the antisemitic BDS movement, the federal government will not do business with you."

Senator Britt has been a vocal advocate for Israel, recently addressing her strong support on the Senate floor while criticizing policies from the Biden-Harris Administration regarding Israel and Iran.