Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law House
Bill 89, known as the Anti-BDS (Boycott, Divestments, and Sanctions) bill,
which prohibits all state agencies from contracting with, and certain public
funds from investing in, companies that boycott Israel.
The governor hosted the bill signing at the Jewish
Community Center in Austin. May 2 is also Israel’s Independence Day.
“I am proud to have commemorated Israel’s Independence
Day by signing into law Anti-BDS legislation in Texas,” said Abbott.
“As Israel’s number one trading partner in the United
States, Texas is proud to reaffirm its support for the people of Israel and we
will continue to build on our historic partnership. Anti-Israel policies are
anti-Texas policies, and we will not tolerate such actions against an important
ally.”
The bill, authored by Rep. Phil King, prohibits the state
of Texas from conducting business with companies involved in the Boycott,
Divestment and Sanctions movement against Israel.
After the bill becomes law, it ensures that certain public
funds are not invested in any entities participating in this movement.
Additionally, state contracts will only be given to
verified businesses to guarantee that Texas maintains a strong and supportive
relationship with Israel.
