A bill aimed at fighting antisemitism in schools is officially Missouri law.
Gov. Mike Kehoe signed legislation last week setting statewide standards to identify and penalize antisemitic conduct.
The rules apply to public schools, charter schools and public universities. These schools must adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and incorporate specific penalties for antisemitic harassment into their student, faculty and employee codes of conduct.
Critics worried the measure would stop free speech on campus. Lawmakers added protections to ensure students can still criticize the policies of the Israeli government without being penalized for antisemitism.
Basically, speech alone won’t get you in trouble. Students cross the line if they are blocking people from going about their day or making others feel threatened.
The new law also puts rules in place for how officials track such incidents. Schools must now report discrimination complaints to state coordinators. But the state will not pass along complaints that only involve protected political or religious speech to the federal government.
Officials also plan to keep those specific cases out of annual public reports to protect free speech.
The law also reinforces broad anti-discrimination protections for all students regardless of race, religion or disability.
If a school fails to comply with the new law, the state can file a formal civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Justice.
The Jewish Federation of St. Louis commends the measure. Federation President and CEO Danny Cohn says thorough dialogue helped refine the bill.
“This bill reflects what is possible when leaders come together with a shared purpose,” Cohn said.
“At a time of rising antisemitism nationwide, this legislation reinforces Missouri’s commitment to ensuring that Jewish communities, and all communities, can live, learn, and gather safely,” Federation Board Chair Todd Siwak said.
Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt calls the new law a big win for Missouri. Greenblatt says the measure establishes a clear definition to use as a tool and guide for addressing incidents. He credits sustained advocacy, collaborative partnership and determined effort for the success of the bill.
“HB 2061 strengthens protection against antisemitism in public schools and colleges,” Greenblatt said. He also expressed gratitude to Gov. Mike Kehoe, Sen. Curtis Trent, Rep. George Hruza and ADL’s Jordan Kadosh for pushing through the legislation.
Educational institutions across Missouri will need to bring their policy manuals into compliance before classes return this fall. The law takes effect Aug. 28.
