The House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at combating antisemitism on college campuses.

H.R.6090 – Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023 passed with a bipartisan vote of 320-91. Notably, 21 House Republicans, and 70 Democrats, including the longest-serving Jewish House Democrat, voted against it due to concerns about the bill’s definition of antisemitism. The bill proposes using definitions of antisemitism proposed by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), which some argue could stifle free speech. Many are concerned that legitimate criticisms of Israel and its policies would be categorized as antisemitism.

The bill comes amid a wave of pro-Palestinian protests around the country. College campuses have faced criticism for allowing student demonstrations and encampments. The student protestors are reportedly advocating for their colleges to stop doing business with Israel or companies they say support the war in Gaza. However, critics say the protestors have harassed Jewish students and faculty as well as disrupted classes.