Rockland Reporter

Congressmen Mike Lawler and Josh Gottheimer have reintroduced the bipartisan IGO Anti-Boycott Act aimed at preventing international governmental organizations from discriminating against Israel. The legislation seeks to amend the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to include these organizations in existing anti-boycott laws, targeting what they describe as harmful BDS efforts within bodies like the United Nations.

The bill previously passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee with a vote of 42-3 and was later approved on the House floor by voice vote. Congressman Lawler emphasized that the bill is a "bipartisan effort to protect U.S. citizens, businesses, and our allies, particularly Israel, from discriminatory boycotts." He added that it closes a loophole allowing international organizations to support BDS activities.

Congressman Gottheimer stated, "International organizations can’t get away with targeting our key democratic ally, Israel," highlighting bipartisan cooperation to combat anti-Israel bias in international forums.

Sandra Hagee Parker of CUFI Action Fund supported the legislation, stating it subjects IGOs involved in anti-Israel boycotts to American laws. AIPAC also expressed strong support for the act, indicating that it opposes U.N.-instigated boycotts against Israel.

FDD Action noted that following an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, there have been attempts to increase boycotts against Israel. They argue that such actions reflect pervasive antisemitic attitudes globally and stress that this legislation aligns with U.S. national security interests.

The Republican Jewish Coalition voiced strong backing for the act as well. Senator Norm Coleman and Matt Brooks remarked on previous legislative challenges but expressed optimism about passing the bill during the current Congress under Republican control.

Congressman Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District, encompassing areas north of New York City including Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.