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HD 1162

An Act relative to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steven Howitt and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts would adopt IHRA's antisemitism definition in state institutions, expanding criteria to include certain Israel-related speech, balancing civil rights enforcement with free expression concerns.

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Bill Summary · HD 1162

Legislative bill overview

HD 1162 would adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism as the standard for Massachusetts state institutions and agencies. This definition expands beyond traditional antisemitism to include certain criticisms of Israel and Israeli government policies, providing specific examples of antisemitic statements and conduct that fall under the definition.

Why is this important

The bill would shape how Massachusetts institutions—including schools, universities, and state agencies—identify and respond to antisemitism in their discrimination and harassment policies. This affects enforcement of civil rights protections and could influence speech policies on college campuses and in public institutions. The definition has become a focal point in national debates about balancing antisemitism prevention with free speech rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Speech protections vs. discrimination enforcement: Critics argue the IHRA definition conflates legitimate political speech about Israel with antisemitism, potentially chilling free expression. Supporters contend it properly identifies how antisemitic tropes are deployed through Israel criticism.
  • Definitional specificity: The IHRA definition includes examples like "claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor," which opponents argue unfairly constrains debate about Israeli policies and government actions. Proponents argue these examples distinguish antisemitism from valid policy criticism.
  • Institutional implementation concerns: Questions about how vague language in the definition would be consistently applied across different state institutions, and whether it would disproportionately affect particular student groups or political perspectives in practice.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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