New York Democrats have effectively blocked Republican legislation aimed at combating rising antisemitism on college campuses, raising serious questions about the state’s commitment to protecting Jewish students amid increasing incidents of hatred.
Key Takeaways
- Albany Democrats killed a bill that would have incorporated the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism into state education law
- The Republican-sponsored legislation would have strengthened Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to combat antisemitism at colleges and universities
- Senate Democrats also blocked two additional bills aimed at mandating antisemitism training and prohibiting state funding for institutions allowing pro-terrorist groups on campus
- Critics argue the rejection comes at a critical time when antisemitic incidents have surged across New York campuses since October 2023
Democrats Halt Anti-Antisemitism Bill in Committee
In a move that has intensified partisan tensions in Albany, Democratic lawmakers have effectively killed legislation designed to strengthen protections against antisemitism on college campuses. The bill, sponsored by Republican Assemblyman Matt Slater, sought to update New York’s education law to incorporate the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. This change would have empowered state authorities to take more decisive action against educational institutions where antisemitic behavior has been documented under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
“The first step in combatting hate is defining it,” Said Matt Slater. “It’s shameful they refuse to take a real stand against antisemitism when they have an opportunity to do so, especially given the significant rise in hate crimes across our state since October of 2023.”
Democrats Cite Federal Jurisdiction and Civil Liberties Concerns
Assembly Democrats, led by Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, tabled the bill in the education committee, effectively preventing its advancement during the current legislative session. Their justification centered on two primary arguments: that the interpretation of the Civil Rights Act should remain under federal jurisdiction, and that the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) had raised concerns about potential impacts on free speech. This rationale has drawn sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers who question why New York would defer action on such a pressing issue.
The growing division reflects broader tensions about how to address antisemitism in educational settings. While Republican lawmakers push for immediate and definitive state action, some Democratic representatives maintain that existing frameworks are sufficient. Assemblyman Sam Berger, while supporting the IHRA definition in a separate bill applicable to all state agencies, defended the Democratic leadership’s overall stance on antisemitism, suggesting that disagreement exists primarily on methodology rather than intent.
Senate Republicans Face Similar Opposition
The battle against antisemitism legislation extends beyond the Assembly. Senate Democrats have similarly blocked two bills put forward by the Senate Republican Conference aimed at combating antisemitism on college campuses. The first bill, S.1752, known as the “dismantling student antisemitism act,” would have mandated sensitivity training and established reporting requirements for antisemitic incidents. The second, S.1268, sought to prohibit state funding for institutions that permit pro-terrorist groups to operate on campus.
“By rejecting these bills, Senate Democrats have made it clear that they are out of touch with reality and more interested in appeasing radical activists and terrorist sympathizers than protecting Jewish students from hate and harassment. It’s just common sense. There should be zero tolerance for antisemitism or hate of any kind on our college campuses—especially when funded by New York taxpayers. I will always stand up against hate and keep fighting to ensure that every student can learn in a safe, respectful environment,” Said Senator Steve Rhoads.
Timing Raises Questions Amid Campus Unrest
The rejection of these legislative efforts comes at a particularly sensitive time, coinciding with high-profile protests at institutions like Columbia University and Brooklyn College. Critics argue that the timing of Democrats’ opposition to these measures sends a troubling message when antisemitic incidents have reportedly increased across New York campuses since October 2023. The Senate Republican Conference has emphasized its commitment to protecting vulnerable students and ensuring campuses remain free from hate and intimidation.
While debate continues over the most effective approach to combating antisemitism in educational settings, the partisan divide on this issue reflects deeper questions about balancing free speech protections with the need to ensure safety and dignity for Jewish students. For now, Republican lawmakers have pledged to continue pushing for stronger protections, while Democrats maintain that existing frameworks, combined with federal oversight, provide adequate safeguards against antisemitic behavior on college campuses throughout New York State.
