Assembly Republicans announced new legislation Thursday to require all colleges to implement an antisemitism training program to combat incidents of hate amid the recent rise of antisemitic threats on college campuses.
A 21-year-old Cornell University student first appeared in federal court Wednesday on charges for allegedly posting violent threats to kill or injure Jewish people on campus.
The incident prompted Assemblyman Ed Ra to introduce the Dismantling Student Antisemitism Act, which would require colleges combat incidents of hate by mandating the training for all students, faculty and staff. Colleges and universities would also and submit annual data showing compliance to the State Education Department.
Schools that fail to comply would be ineligible to receive state funding, and forfeit state aid until the requirements are satisfied.
“It’s been frustrating to see such blatant antisemitism unravel across our state, especially in places that are supposed to be dedicated to education, learning and free thinking,” Ra, a Franklin Square Republican, said in a statement. “It’s clear, we must offer an avenue for our universities to track any instances of antisemitism, and ensure that they are are providing guidance, accountability and transparency. New Yorkers deserve a state free of antisemitism, and our students deserve a college experience free of threats.”
Antisemitic incidents have increased nearly 400% since Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, according to the Anti-Defamation League. Threats and incidents of hate speech and related violence have been on the rise in the last several years leading up to the the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which has left thousands of people dead.
New employees at all accredited colleges in the state would be required to undergo antisemitism training. The bill also includes provisions requiring institutions consult with an expert to conduct the seminars.
Colleges and universities would also need to publicize how to report violations of the policy, and who to contact with questions.
“The rise of antisemitic incidents across New York demands the Legislature take action,” said Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay, a Republican from Pulaski. “The college experience should be a place for students and faculty to feel safe. Students should be able to fully immerse themselves in their studies while developing personal and professional skills to prepare for a successful career. This bill will require that the entire public university system takes steps to curtail the events we’re seeing now and prevent blatant discrimination in the future.”