HARRISBURG – The Senate of Pennsylvania approved legislation that would prohibit the PA Treasury’s Office, the State Employees’ Retirement System, the Public School Employees’ Retirement System and the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System from boycotting or divesting from Israel, according to Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) who supported the bill. The measure also would cut off state tax dollars from going to higher education institutions that boycott or divest from Israel.
Senate Bill 1260 sends a loud message that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania stands with its top ally in the Middle East – Israel. On Oct. 7, 2023, more than 1,000 Israelis, mostly civilians, were murdered by Hamas terrorists. U.S. college campuses experienced volatile antisemitic protests that called for the complete destruction of Israel. Jewish students were required to shelter in place in their dorm rooms out of fear for their lives. Protesters were successful in getting some colleges to consider divesting from Israel, as well as companies that do business with the Israeli government.
“Passage of this measure sends the clear message that we are not going to turn our backs on America’s closest ally in the Middle East or on our Jewish neighbors at home. We’re standing with Israel in its hour of need and against antisemitism wherever it rears its head,” Pennycuick said.
In the wake of the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks, Pennsylvania’s Treasurer Stacy Garrity, who supports the legislation, invested an additional $20 million in Israel bonds, bringing the Treasury’s total investment in Israel to more than $56 million.
The measure heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
CONTACT: Matt Szuchyt (215) 541-2388