Policy Impact Analysis - 117/HR/6940

Bill Overview

Title: Israel Anti-Boycott Act

Description: This bill prohibits participation by certain entities and individuals in boycotts or requests for boycotts imposed by international governmental organizations (i.e., the United Nations and the European Union). Specifically, the bill applies to covered persons the prohibition of specified actions in compliance with or in support of a boycott against a country that is friendly to the United States and that is not itself the object of a U.S. boycott. The bill defines a covered person as a domestic concern, the U.S. government or a state government, or a representative or official of such domestic concern or government. The bill also adds to the list of specified prohibited actions the act of furnishing information to any foreign country or international governmental organization that furthers an imposed boycott. Under current law, a person who violates the prohibitions against such boycotts may be subject to a monetary fine or imprisonment; however, the bill removes imprisonment as a potential penalty for certain violations.

Sponsors: Rep. Zeldin, Lee M. [R-NY-1]

Target Audience

Population: Individuals and entities potentially involved in international boycotts of friendly countries to the U.S.

Estimated Size: 500000

• The law primarily impacts individuals and entities in the United States since it prohibits participation in boycotts initiated by international governmental organizations like the UN and EU.
• The target population includes covered persons which are defined as domestic concerns, the U.S. government or a state government, or representatives and officials thereof.
• Additionally, the bill affects people and organizations in countries friendly to the U.S. that are targeted by international boycotts, although indirectly, as it prevents U.S. persons from participating.

Reasoning

• The Israel Anti-Boycott Act mainly affects individuals and organizations that conduct business with or have economic ties to countries friendly to the U.S. and are involved in international trade or politics.
• The policy specifically impacts those at intersecting points of international law and commerce, including corporations with global operations, employees in international relations roles, and individuals involved in advocacy.
• Most individuals in the U.S. may not directly feel the policy's impacts; however, those in targeted industries may see changes depending on company practices and international partnerships.
• Given the policy aims to restrict participation in certain boycotts, the effects will most likely manifest in how organizations conduct international operations rather than immediately altering day-to-day life for most American citizens.
• The policy budget of $50 million in year 1 and $500 million over 10 years likely focuses on compliance enforcement and monitoring, which suggests a narrow and specific target group rather than widespread national implications.

Simulated Interviews

Cost Estimates

Key Considerations

• International political relations may influence how this bill is received and enforced by the U.S., potentially affecting trade relations with allied countries.
• The bill could face opposition or legal challenges based on free speech and trade law arguments, impacting its enforceability.