JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri House has passed a bill that would ban the state from working with companies boycotting Israel.
The proposal, approved in a 111-35 vote, would bar government entities from hiring businesses that are purposefully refusing to do business with Israel as a way to protest that country’s policies toward Palestinians.
The measure would not affect contracts worth less than $10,000.
Proponents say it’s an important show of support for an ally and trade partner.
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Opponents say the bill is unconstitutional and would inhibit citizens’ ability to participate in a nonviolent protest.
The bill now heads to the Senate.
More than 20 other states have adopted this policy. A similar law in Kansas was blocked by a federal judge this year pending a court challenge.
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The bill HB 2179