| The Anti-Defamation League is proud to stand with Governor Brian Sandoval today, June 2, 2017, while he signs Nevada Senate Bill 26, which will prevent discrimination in state contracts and investments by ensuring that taxpayer funds are not used to subsidize discrimination against Israel or a person doing business in Israel. Nevada will join with 19 other states that have anti-BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) laws in place. We are proud to be one of the organizations that testified and provided resources and education. |
ADL believes that the state of Nevada has a significant and substantial interest in opposing discrimination based on national origin. This bill specifically addresses the BDS movement, a campaign which aims to pressure, ostracize and marginalize Israel. In reality, these campaigns often create climates that are hostile to Jews where anti-Semitism can take root.
ADL works every day to combat discrimination in all its forms. The League is also a strong supporter of the First Amendment, and recognizes that advocating boycotts for political reasons is protected by the Constitution.
While boycotts are protected when they constitute pure political expression, they are not protected when they manifest themselves as a form of discrimination based on national origin, religion, or some other protected category. ADL supports anti-BDS legislation that addresses BDS conduct that constitutes discrimination. With this in mind, ADL welcomes SB 26, which is designed to prohibit the state of Nevada from doing business with companies that engage in boycotts when such boycotts are discriminatory. We hope this initiative serves as an important vehicle to eliminate discrimination when it comes to doing business with the State of Nevada.
The ADL sends deep gratitude to Governor Sandoval, Lieutenant Governor Hutchison and the many supporters, including organizations and individuals, who made their voices heard and fought to get this bill passed in Nevada.
For more information about ADL’s stance on the BDS movement, click here.