Senator Bill Weber Introduces ‘The Combating Campus Antisemitism Act’ to Halt TAP Awards for Students Engaging in Hateful Activities

 In light of the disturbing rise in Antisemitic incidents across New York State following the Hamas terror attacks on October 7th, Senator Bill Weber has introduced critical legislation aimed at curbing hateful behavior.

The proposed law seeks to prohibit New York college students knowingly engaging in antisemitism from receiving New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) awards. The Taxpayer-funded TAP awards are designed to support New York residents attending approved schools within the state. These awards, which can amount to up to $5,665 annually and are non-repayable, will be withheld from students found to be engaged in antisemitic activities.

According to the ADL, since October 7, 2023, there has been a nearly 400 percent rise in Antisemitic incidents across the United States: “This has been felt intensely on U.S. college campuses where Jewish students have borne the brunt of antisemitic incidents, including violent assaults, intimidation, and harassment by fellow students.”

Senator Weber expressed deep concern about the alarming prevalence of antisemitism, particularly on college campuses:

"While it is disheartening to witness the overt embrace of antisemitism across our state," the senator says, "it is especially troubling to see it manifesting within our institutions of higher learning. There is no room for hate in New York, and it is our duty to put an end to this divisive behavior."

The legislation, which has just been introduced, will now have to wait until the Senate goes back into session in January whereupon, it needs someone in the Assembly to sign on as a sponsor to further the process.