Bill Targeting Israel Boycotts Ready For Governor
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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/NSF) - With lawmakers pointing to the close ties between the United States and Israel, the Florida House has given final approval to a bill taking aim at businesses that boycott Israel.
House members voted 112-2 on Wednesday to approve a bill, which unanimously passed the Senate last month. It is now ready to go to Governor Rick Scott.
The bill would require the State Board of Administration to compile a list of companies that boycott Israel.
The State Board of Administration, which runs Florida's pension fund, would not be able to invest in those companies. Also, the bill would prevent state and local governments from entering into contracts worth $1 million or more with the companies.
"What you are doing when you vote for this bill is you are letting the world know that you are standing with America's greatest ally," said Rep. Richard Stark before the House vote.
Rep. John Cortes, of Kissimmee, and Rep. John Tobia, from Melbourne Beach, cast the only votes against the bill.
The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.
