JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - The Missouri House has passed a bill that would ban the state from working with companies boycotting Israel.
The proposal, approved in a 111-35 vote, would bar government entities from hiring businesses that are purposefully refusing to do business with Israel as a way to protest that country’s policies toward Palestinians.
The measure would not affect contracts worth less than $10,000.
People were interested in these podcasts
Proponents say it’s an important show of support for an ally and trade partner.
Opponents say the bill is unconstitutional and would inhibit citizens’ ability to participate in a nonviolent protest.
The bill now heads to the Senate.
More than 20 other states have adopted this policy. A similar law in Kansas was blocked by a federal judge this year pending a court challenge.
___
The bill HB 2179
Please read our comment policy before commenting.