Nanuet, NY – Responding to the increasing wave of antisemitic incidents across New York college campuses, Senator Bill Weber and Assemblyman Ari Brown have jointly introduced the Combating Campus Antisemitism Act, officially designated as Senate Bill S7752.
Expressing his concern over the disturbing prevalence of antisemitism on campuses, Senator Bill Weber remarked, “Seeing antisemitism not just openly embraced, but celebrated, since the October 7th attack has been shocking. There is something deeply wrong and deeply sick when those who are supposed to be among the most educated in our country have internalized lies and hatred.”
Assemblyman Ari Brown, emphasizing the need for accountability, stated, “The NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) was designed to help hardworking students achieve their dreams of a college education. Students who glorify terrorist attacks against our Jewish brethren and promote the evil ideologies of Nazism and antisemitism should not receive a single cent of taxpayer money. Continuing one’s education is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. It is not a right, and it will not be subsidized for those who celebrate violence and prejudice.”
The proposed act aims to prevent New York college students knowingly engaged in antisemitism from receiving benefits under the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP).
The TAP awards, funded by taxpayers, are intended to support New York residents attending approved in-state schools. These non-repayable awards, potentially reaching up to $5,665 annually, will be withheld from students found to be participating in antisemitic activities.
According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), there has been a nearly 400 percent rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States since October 7, 2023. The impact has been particularly pronounced on U.S. college campuses, where Jewish students have faced a surge in antisemitic incidents, including violent assaults, intimidation, and harassment by fellow students.