State officials would use a common definition of antisemitism when applying Pennsylvania laws and regulations that use the word without defining it.
Laws and regulations using antisemitism without defining it would follow a shared definition. It would include certain statements about Israel but exclude criticism of Israel similar to criticism of other countries, while protecting constitutional rights.
The default definition would classify crimes as antisemitic when targets were chosen for real or perceived Jewish ties. Antisemitic discrimination would mean denying Jews opportunities or services available to others.
Pennsylvania would use a definition of antisemitism that includes hatred toward Jews. It would apply only when a law or regulation uses antisemitism without defining it. Examples would include Holocaust denial and comparing Israeli policies to Nazi policies. Their overall context would matter. Criticism of Israel similar to criticism of any other country would be excluded. The definition could not limit constitutional rights or conflict with discrimination laws. The definition would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
A crime would count as antisemitic if its target was chosen for a real or perceived Jewish identity or connection. Covered targets would include people and property. These definitions would apply where laws or regulations use antisemitism without defining it. Denying Jews opportunities or services available to others would count as antisemitic discrimination. Constitutional rights and existing discrimination laws would remain protected. These definitions would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
No hearings or votes scheduled.