New York Legislators Unite Against Anti-Israel Bill Targeting Charitable Aid

In a strong display of solidarity, 25 New York State Assembly members have vehemently condemned a recently introduced bill that seeks to undermine Israel’s right to exist and restrict charitable aid to victims of terror in Israel. The legislation, known as A06943, has drawn sharp criticism for its detrimental impact on Jewish organizations that provide a wide range of essential services to those in need.

Assemblyman Daniel Rosenthal emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “There’s a legislator in Albany who doesn’t believe in Israel’s right to exist. That’s why 25 of us are condemning this bill that would stop NY charities from helping victims of terror in Israel.” This legislation, introduced while rockets were raining down on innocent civilians, exhibits a remarkable level of audacity and insensitivity.

In response to the bill’s introduction, the members of the Assembly issued a joint statement firmly opposing the proposed legislation. They highlighted the bill’s intention to demonize Jewish charities with connections to Israel and its potential to further divide the Democratic Party. The statement read, “This bill is a ploy to demonize Jewish charities…to antagonize pro-Israel New Yorkers and further sow divisions within the Democratic Party.”

The legislators called for supporters of the bill to condemn the recent attack on civilians by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and recognize Israel’s fundamental right to exist. They emphasized that the proposed legislation goes against the principles of unity, support, and compassion that should guide their work.

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, a leading advocate against the bill, fiercely denounced the legislation as “hateful, offensive, and anti-Semitic.” She further emphasized the vital role played by Jewish nonprofits in providing aid to individuals regardless of their faith, combatting the false tropes that underpin the proposed legislation. Pheffer Amato expressed her determination to prevent the bill from becoming law, asserting that it does not reflect the sentiments and beliefs of the State Assembly.

The collective response from New York State legislators demonstrates their resolute commitment to combat anti-Semitism and protect the invaluable work of Jewish charitable organizations. As Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato asserted, “New York State stands committed to its unbreakable bond with Israel,” and she stands ready to defend that bond against this anti-Semitic attack.

The introduction of this bill serves as a stark reminder of the importance of unity and the ongoing fight against prejudice and hatred. The New York State Assembly remains steadfast in its support for Israel and the humanitarian efforts of Jewish organizations, standing firmly against attempts to undermine their critical work.

There’s a legislator in Albany who doesn’t believe in Israel’s right to exist.

That’s why 25 of us are condeming his bill that would stop NY charities from helping victims of terror in Israel.

True chutzpah: he introduced this law while rockets were raining down on civilians. pic.twitter.com/opppDFEN6m

— Daniel Rosenthal (@DanRosenthalNYC) May 17, 2023