The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on May 5, 2025, on H.R. 867, the IGO Anti-Boycott Act, which could impose severe penalties on Americans participating in boycotts of Israel or its settlements promoted by international organizations like the United Nations or European Union. Sponsored by Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), the bill expands the 2018 Anti-Boycott Act, targeting actions aligned with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Congress.gov details the bill’s provisions.
[](https://mahometdaily.com/house-to-vote-monday-on-controversial-igo-anti-boycott-act/)
If passed, violations could result in fines up to $1 million or 20 years in prison, raising concerns among civil liberties groups. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) warns that the legislation violates First Amendment rights, as political boycotts are protected speech, citing the Supreme Court’s 1982 ruling in NAACP v. Claiborne Hardware. Critics argue the bill aims to suppress non-violent protest against Israel’s policies, particularly its actions in Gaza.
[](https://www.aclu.org/news/free-speech/first-amendment-protects-right-boycott-israel)
Pro-Israel groups like AIPAC strongly support the bill, claiming it protects Israel from economic warfare. However, posts on X reflect public outrage, with users calling it “unconstitutional” and an overreach. The bill’s bipartisan support, with 24 cosponsors, underscores its political weight, but its Senate fate remains uncertain after previous blocks by Democrats.
[](https://deepnewz.com/us-legislation/us-house-to-vote-on-h-r-867-1-million-fine-20-year-prison-boycotting-israel-2a63193f)
As the vote looms, debates intensify over free speech versus foreign policy priorities. Stay updated on this critical issue.
