House backs bill to curb campus Israel boycotts with federal funds

The U.S. House passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act, a Republican-backed bill that would penalize colleges that participate in Israel boycotts or restrict students from studying in Israel, by barring such institutions from federal student aid and requiring annual certifications that programs do not discriminate against Israel-related study. The measure cleared 237-169 with 33 Democrats voting in favor and now heads to the Senate; supporters say it counters antisemitism and preserves study opportunities, while critics warn it could chill speech and run afoul of First Amendment protections.