House Passes Antisemitism Awareness Act 320-91, Amid Campus Unrest

May 1, 2024, 08:10 PM

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which seeks to codify the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism into federal law. This legislative move is a response to the rising antisemitic incidents on college campuses, particularly in light of recent pro-Palestinian protests. The bill, which received bipartisan support, mandates the Department of Education to enforce federal anti-discrimination laws more effectively. Critics, however, express concerns that the bill might infringe on free speech by potentially labeling criticism of Israel as antisemitic. The bill passed with a significant majority, 320-91, with 187 Republicans and 133 Democrats voting in favor, while 21 Republicans and 70 Democrats voted against it.