Florida Republican Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have recently put forward the Preventing Antisemitic Harassment on Campus Act.
Antisemitism has experienced an increase on college campuses following the tragic Hamas-backed attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Subsequently, a war has been ongoing in Gaza.
The legislation seeks to ensure that Institutes of Higher Education are held accountable by enforcing federal consequences.
In a statement, Scott emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Jewish students on college and university campuses. He stated that any educational institution that enables antisemitism and fails to address the concerns of students should be held accountable.
Scott further emphasized the need for colleges and universities to reject all forms of hate and prejudice, and to take action against those who contribute to the rise of antisemitism on campuses nationwide.
In support of these efforts, Scott expressed his pride in joining Senator Rubio in introducing the Preventing Antisemitic Harassment on Campus Act, which aims to directly address these issues.
All federally funded programs in the United States are legally bound by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The Act will strongly enforce Title VI and expand its scope to include the prohibition of discrimination based on religion, while also allowing for certain religious exceptions. Additionally, it will impose significant penalties on institutions that repeatedly engage in discriminatory practices.
In May 2023, the Department of Education sent out a Dear Colleague Letter as a reminder of their legal duty to ensure that all students, including those of Jewish descent, are provided with a school environment that is free from any form of discrimination based on race, color, or national origin, including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics.
According to reports from ATL, cases of antisemitic harassment have seen a staggering 500% increase. The senators emphasize that institutions nationwide have taken no action in terms of prevention or punishment for those responsible.
In regards to the Preventing Antisemitic Harassment on Campus Act, Rubio emphasizes the importance of educational institutions fulfilling their duty to safeguard Jewish students from hate and discrimination. He states, “This act is a crucial measure in guaranteeing the protection of Jewish students on campus.”
The Act also mandates that institutions inform students, faculty, and staff if they are found to be in violation of Title VI.
The Education Department is now mandated to monitor all private lawsuits against any institution that receives federal financial assistance in relation to antisemitism.
