Cape News

Chairman Smith delivered an opening statement during the floor debate on the Anti-BDS Labeling Act on September 18, 2024. The act was introduced by Claudia Tenney, a member of the Ways and Means Committee.

Smith emphasized the importance of providing American families with information about product origins to support Israel's economy, especially during times of conflict. He stated, "American families should have this information in order to buy products that support Israel’s economy – particularly in a time of war. Conversely, people should know if an item comes from a region controlled by terrorists that kidnapped and killed their fellow Americans."

He highlighted ongoing issues related to the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. Smith pointed out that recent campus protests aimed at forcing university endowments to divest from Israel had led to harassment and intimidation of Jewish students. He assured that the Ways and Means Committee would continue holding universities accountable until Jewish students feel safe on campuses.

Smith underscored America's strong alliance with Israel, referencing actions taken under President Trump, such as moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and brokering the Abraham Accords. He noted Trump's administration's efforts to counter the BDS movement by clarifying labeling requirements for items imported from regions under Israeli authority.

The bill aims to codify these labeling rules into law and prohibit federal funds from being used to reverse or alter them. Smith criticized reports suggesting that the Biden-Harris Administration considered reversing this policy, accusing Democrats of prioritizing radical progressives over supporting Israel.

Smith concluded by urging his Democrat colleagues to vote in favor of the legislation: "I urge my Democrat colleagues to vote yes on this legislation and join us in empowering Americans looking to show their support for Israel."