Murphy sponsors bill to protect Israel, allied nations

ALBANY, NY - When it comes to standing with our allies the New York State Senate made a bold statement yesterday by passing legislation sponsored by State Senator Terrence Murphy that would ban state business with contractors or investment companies that boycott, divest or sanction American allies. 

"Our allies should know that our state and nation unequivocally stand with them," Murphy said.  "This is a common sense piece of legislation that would prevent our hard earned tax dollars from potentially funding those trying to harm America's allied nations.  With the recent string of violent attacks across the globe nations need to stand together now more than ever to stop the spread of terrorism in the world."

Senate Majority Leader John J. Flanagan said, "New York taxpayers need to be protected from becoming unwitting supporters of those who are trying to undermine our greatest ally, Israel, and other critical allies.  We are demonstrating that New York will continue to stand with our international partners and protect our shared interests."

Current New York State law prohibits the State from directly engaging in an international boycott against American-allied nations. New York City has a similar prohibition as part of its administrative code. However, the state could indirectly support a boycott of American allies by providing state monies to businesses or individuals that participate in boycotts like the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement aimed at causing economic harm to Israel and the Israeli people.

The legislation passed yesterday would expand New York's law by prohibiting state contracting with, or state investment in businesses or individuals that promote or engage in activities to boycott, sanction, or divest in Israel and other American allied nations. This would prevent the state from becoming unwilling participants in a discriminatory agenda.

The state would use publicly available information to develop a reference list of companies, organizations, or other entities that have engaged in or promoted boycotts of American allies. New Jersey, Illinois, and South Carolina have adopted similar laws to ensure that their taxpayers are not paying to support these entities.

The bill will be sent to the Assembly.