The bill targets official university boycotts, such as refusing to buy from, invest in or work with Israeli companies for political reasons. A university that participates could be removed from federal programs that provide Pell Grants and student loans, preventing students from using that money at the school.
Universities receiving federal money for international education programs would also have to treat Israel like every other country. They could not block American students or professors from programs in Israel, or exclude Israelis from programs on their campuses.
Gottheimer coauthored the bill with Republican Congresswoman Virginia Foxx. He said universities receiving American taxpayer money should not be allowed to discriminate against Israel, Israeli institutions or Israeli students.
The bill does not punish students or professors for protesting Israel. It only applies to official actions taken by universities. It must still pass the Senate and be signed by President Trump before becoming law.