I write today in opposition to H.R. 1697 & S. 720, also known as the Israel Anti-Boycott Act. I understand that proponents of the bill are seeking additional cosponsors. I urge you to not co-sponsor this legislation because it would punish individuals for no reason other than their political beliefs. I also urge you to oppose the bill, whether in committee or on the floor.
The bill would bar U.S. persons from supporting boycotts against Israel, including its settlements in the Palestinian Occupied Territories, conducted by international governmental organizations, such as the United Nations and the European Union. It would also broaden the law to include penalties for simply requesting information about such boycotts. Violations would be subject to a minimum civil penalty of $250,000 and a maximum criminal penalty of $1 million and 20 years in prison. The government cannot, consistent with the First Amendment, punish U.S. persons based solely on their expressed political beliefs.
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