North Lancaster News

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation with significant bipartisan support to prohibit state entities from boycotting or divesting from Israel. According to Sen. Ryan Aument (R-Lancaster), the bill, which passed by a vote of 41-7, would affect the PA Treasury’s Office, the State Employees’ Retirement System, the Public School Employees’ Retirement System, and the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System. Additionally, it would cut off state tax dollars from higher education institutions that engage in such actions against Israel.

Senate Bill 1260 is seen as a strong statement of Pennsylvania's support for Israel. The measure comes in response to an attack on October 7, 2023, by Hamas terrorists that resulted in over 1,000 Israeli casualties. In this attack, terrorists committed severe atrocities including killing babies and taking hostages. As of now, 132 hostages remain captive.

Following these events, U.S. college campuses saw pro-Palestinian protests that included antisemitic rhetoric and calls for the destruction of Israel. Some colleges have considered divesting from Israel due to these protests.

“Hamas is a terrorist organization that hides behind innocent people when responding to legitimate attacks,” said Aument. “Israel has every right to defend itself and eliminate threats for both Jews and Palestinians alike.” He emphasized Israel's status as a democratic state and long-standing ally of the United States.

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity supported the legislation by investing an additional $20 million in Israel bonds after the October attacks, raising the Treasury’s total investment in Israel to more than $56 million.

“The strong bipartisan vote today signifies our steadfast loyalty to Israel and firm condemnation of Hamas,” said Garrity. She also stressed that antisemitism has no place in Pennsylvania.

The measure now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

CONTACT: Stephanie Applegate