This bill establishes a state definition of anti-Semitism, aligning it with the definition adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance on May 26, 2016. It emphasizes that while the definition includes contemporary examples of anti-Semitism, criticism of Israel that is similar to criticism of any other country shall not be considered anti-Semitic. The bill mandates that when reviewing or investigating allegations of discriminatory acts, state authorities must consider this definition to determine if the actions were motivated by anti-Semitic intent.
Additionally, the bill ensures that its provisions do not infringe upon rights protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution or the New Jersey State Constitution. It clarifies that the bill will not conflict with existing local, state, or federal anti-discrimination laws or regulations. This legislative effort aims to provide a clear framework for understanding and addressing anti-Semitism in New Jersey, reflecting the growing concern over hate incidents targeting Jewish individuals and communities.