This bill amends West Virginia Code ยง5A-3-63 to clarify that the prohibitions on contracting with companies that boycott Israel also apply to exempt agencies. The bill emphasizes the state's commitment to denouncing the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions Movement against Israel, which it views as harmful to both economic relations and humanitarian obligations. It defines key terms such as "boycott of Israel" and "company," and establishes that public entities cannot enter into contracts valued at $100,000 or more with companies engaged in such boycotts unless a written certification is provided.
Additionally, the bill includes a provision that any contract violating these requirements will be considered void as against public policy. It also grants the Director of the Purchasing Division the authority to create legislative rules to implement these provisions. The amendments made during the 2025 legislative session will take effect on the specified date, further solidifying the state's stance against economic boycotts of Israel.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 5A-3-63