Nassau Standard

On Wednesday, May 15, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, along with Senators Bill Weber and Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, and members of the Senate and Assembly Republican Conferences, announced the introduction of several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing the increase in antisemitism on college campuses throughout New York State.

At the “Hate Has Consequences” press conference held at the New York State Capitol, legislators outlined new bills designed to combat rising antisemitism in state schools. The proposals include:

- Prohibiting state funding for any degree-granting institution that permits certain pro-terrorist groups on campus or any group that engages in or promotes terrorist activities (S.9193, Senator Rhoads).

- Establishing new crimes for deceptive wearing of a mask and aggravated assault while wearing a mask, classified as a class B misdemeanor and class A misdemeanor respectively (S.9194, Senator Rhoads).

- Prohibiting state funding for any college where instructional staff directly or indirectly promote or engage in activities supporting a terrorist organization (S.9600, Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick).

Senator Steve Rhoads emphasized the urgency of these measures: “In the face of escalating antisemitism on New York State college campuses, bold action is needed to confront rampant discrimination due to failed university leadership and restore academic integrity, civility, and respect. University administrators have turned a blind eye to the problem... The legislative package unveiled today provides a critical roadmap for combating antisemitism on college campuses in New York State.”

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick echoed this sentiment: “New Yorkers should not be expected to foot the bill for colleges that allow educators to promote the actions of terrorist organizations... Our legislative package represents a significant step forward in protecting our students and communities against all forms of discrimination and intolerance.”

Senator Bill Weber added: “The Republican conference has diligently conducted our research... It's imperative for moderate Democrats within the majority conference to either collaborate with us in this crucial fight against hatred or present their own initiatives."

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt highlighted what he sees as legislative inaction: “Amidst a dramatic rise in antisemitism... it is imperative that the Legislature act to protect Jewish New Yorkers. This is the single most pressing issue we are faced with."

Assemblyman Mike Reilly addressed concerns about balancing free speech with public safety: “Protecting the first amendment right to assembly is important but protecting public safety is paramount... Our legislation to ban deceptive mask-wearing for those attending protests achieves both in a responsible way.”

Assemblyman Ari Brown concluded by stressing national security concerns: “Pro-terrorist groups have infiltrated our college and university campuses... If these institutions allow terrorist activities to fester on their campuses, they will no longer receive a dime of taxpayer money.”

The bills introduced follow recommendations from a report by the Senate Republican Working Group on Antisemitism and aim to address an increase in antisemitic incidents following Hamas attacks in Israel on October 7.