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Combating BDS Act of 2023

3/14/2024, 6:50 AM

Summary of Bill S 1637

Bill 118 s 1637, also known as the Combating BDS Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. The BDS movement is a global campaign that calls for economic and political pressure to be placed on Israel in response to its treatment of Palestinians.

The Combating BDS Act of 2023 seeks to combat the BDS movement by prohibiting US companies from participating in boycotts against Israel. The bill would also authorize state and local governments to divest from companies that engage in boycotts against Israel.

Supporters of the bill argue that the BDS movement unfairly targets Israel and is anti-Semitic in nature. They believe that the US should stand with Israel as a key ally in the Middle East and oppose efforts to delegitimize the country. Opponents of the bill, however, argue that it infringes on free speech rights and the ability to engage in peaceful protest. They believe that individuals and companies should have the right to boycott Israel as a form of political expression. The Combating BDS Act of 2023 has sparked debate in Congress and among the public, with both sides presenting compelling arguments for and against the legislation. As the bill makes its way through the legislative process, it will be important to closely monitor the discussions and decisions surrounding this controversial issue.

Congressional Summary of S 1637

Combating BDS Act of 2023

This bill allows a state or local government to adopt measures to divest its assets from entities using boycotts, divestments, or sanctions to influence Israel's policies. Such measures shall meet various requirements, including those related to written notice and comment. It also bars lawsuits against investment companies based solely on a company's decision to divest from entities that use boycotts, divestments, or sanctions to influence Israel's policies.

Current Status of Bill S 1637

Bill S 1637 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 17, 2023. Bill S 1637 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on May 17, 2023.  Bill S 1637's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. as of May 17, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 1637

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
14
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
14
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 1637

Primary Policy Focus

Foreign Trade and International Finance

Potential Impact Areas

- Israel
- Public contracts and procurement
- State and local government operations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 1637

Combating BDS Act of 2023
Combating BDS Act of 2023
A bill to provide for nonpreemption of measures by State and local governments to divest from entities that engage in certain boycott, divestment, or sanctions activities targeting Israel or persons doing business in Israel or Israeli-controlled territories, and for other purposes.

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